Laparoscopic rectosigmoid flap vaginoplasty

Abstract

Various methods have been developed for vaginoplasty, of which the rectosigmoid flap has its own advantages including sufficient increase in the vaginal length and lower incidence of complications such as contracture or strain after vaginoplasty. Laparoscopic operation can greatly minimise the abdominal scar associated with laparotomy and allow cosmetically superior outcomes. Its minimally invasive procedure can also achieve rapid recovery and shorten the duration of hospital stay. Twelve patients (age range 18-40 years) had vaginoplasty using the rectosigmoid colon. We evaluated the ecological changes of the neovagina from the change of pH in the neovagina, culture of the normal flora, and vaginal wall biopsy taken 6 to 12 months postoperatively. Details of sexual activity were also examined. No patient from interviews developed vaginal narrowing as a result of the contracture that caused painful intercourse, or had smelly discharge or spontaneous bleeding from the vagina. Laparoscopic procedures may need only five-openings of 1–1.5 cm in diameter. Mean operating time was 130 minutes (IQR, 113-140) and duration of hospital stay 8.5 days (IQR, 7-11). Twelve months postoperatively the intravaginal pH was about 6. In one case, the histological test showed that the original columnar cell of the intestinal mucosa had been transformed to stratified squamous cell tissue. The key to the vaginoplasty is that it should give functional satisfaction and a minimal rate of complications. The laparoscopic rectosigmoid flap technique of vaginoplasty allowed less morbidity and excellent aesthetic and functional postoperative outcomes.

Key Words::

• Laparoscopy
• rectosigmoid flap vaginoplasty

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Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.