Our Summary

This research paper talks about a new surgical procedure, called the Kisu modification, that has been developed for patients with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome. MRKH syndrome is a condition where a female is born without a vagina. The new procedure uses a laparoscopic technique, which is a minimally invasive surgery done through small incisions, to create a new vagina (neovagina).

The researchers tested this procedure on ten patients who were, on average, 24 years old. The surgeries were all successful without any complications and resulted in neovaginas with an average length of around 10 centimeters. A year after the surgery, the neovaginas were still functional, with no signs of damage or prolapse (falling down or slipping out of place).

Five of the ten patients attempted sexual intercourse after the surgery and all of them reported being satisfied with their sexual activity. This indicates that the neovaginas were not only anatomically correct but also functionally effective.

Although the study tested the procedure on a small number of patients, the results were promising. The researchers concluded that the Kisu modification could be a safe, effective, and feasible surgical option for women with MRKH syndrome.

FAQs

  1. What is the Kisu modification surgical procedure?
  2. How successful was the Kisu modification procedure in the study and what were the results?
  3. Can patients with MRKH syndrome engage in normal sexual activity after undergoing the Kisu modification procedure?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering vaginoplasty to thoroughly research and discuss the procedure with their healthcare provider to ensure they understand the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes. It’s important for patients to have realistic expectations and to follow post-operative care instructions to ensure a successful recovery. Additionally, patients should consider seeking a second opinion from another healthcare provider to ensure they are making an informed decision.

Suitable For

Patients with MRKH syndrome, who are born without a vagina, are typically recommended vaginoplasty procedures like the Kisu modification to create a neovagina. This surgery can help improve their quality of life, allow for sexual activity, and address any psychological distress associated with their condition. Other patients who may be recommended vaginoplasty include those with vaginal agenesis, vaginal atresia, or other congenital conditions affecting the vagina. Additionally, transgender individuals seeking gender-affirming surgery may also undergo vaginoplasty to create a neovagina. Ultimately, the decision to undergo vaginoplasty should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider based on individual needs, goals, and medical considerations.

Timeline

Before the surgery:

  • Patient is diagnosed with MRKH syndrome, a condition where she is born without a vagina.
  • Patient undergoes consultations with a gynecologist and a plastic surgeon to discuss treatment options.
  • Patient decides to undergo vaginoplasty surgery to create a neovagina.
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure she is a suitable candidate for surgery.

After the surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the Kisu modification surgery, a laparoscopic technique to create a new vagina.
  • Surgery is successful without complications, and the patient recovers in the hospital for a few days.
  • Patient is discharged from the hospital and instructed on post-operative care and follow-up appointments.
  • Neovagina is measured to be around 10 centimeters in length.
  • Patient reports no signs of damage or prolapse in the neovagina one year post-surgery.
  • Patient attempts sexual intercourse and reports satisfaction with sexual activity.
  • Researchers conclude that the Kisu modification is a safe and effective surgical option for patients with MRKH syndrome.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about vaginoplasty include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with vaginoplasty surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after vaginoplasty and what can I expect during this time?
  3. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments before or after the surgery?
  4. What are the expected outcomes of vaginoplasty in terms of functionality, appearance, and sexual satisfaction?
  5. How experienced are you in performing vaginoplasty procedures and what is your success rate?
  6. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or undergo any rehabilitation therapy?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after undergoing vaginoplasty?
  8. How will vaginoplasty impact my future sexual relationships and intimacy?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options for my condition that I should consider before deciding on vaginoplasty?
  10. Can you provide me with more information about the specific surgical technique that will be used in my case, such as the Kisu modification for MRKH syndrome?

Reference

Authors: Kisu I, Iida M, Nakamura K, Banno K, Shiraishi T, Tokuoka A, Yamaguchi K, Tanaka K, Iijima M, Senba H, Matsuda K, Hirao N. Journal: J Clin Med. 2021 Nov 25;10(23):5510. doi: 10.3390/jcm10235510. PMID: 34884214