Our Summary

This research paper discusses a technique called laparoscopic vaginoplasty, which is a surgical procedure used to create or reconstruct a vagina. The paper specifically looks at this procedure in the context of Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome, a condition where a person is born without a vagina. This paper examines how vaginal reconstruction can be done to help individuals with this condition.

FAQs

  1. What is a laparoscopic vaginoplasty?
  2. What is Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome and how does it relate to vaginal reconstruction?
  3. What does vaginal reconstruction involve in relation to laparoscopic vaginoplasty?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about vaginoplasty is to make sure to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the surgeon, such as abstaining from smoking, avoiding certain medications, and maintaining a healthy diet. This will help optimize the success of the procedure and promote faster healing post-surgery. Additionally, discussing any concerns or questions with the surgeon beforehand can help alleviate any anxiety and ensure the patient is well-informed about the procedure and what to expect during recovery.

Suitable For

Vaginoplasty is typically recommended for patients with conditions such as:

  1. Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome, a congenital condition characterized by the absence or underdevelopment of the vagina and uterus.

  2. Transgender women seeking gender-affirming surgery to create or enhance a vagina.

  3. Patients who have experienced trauma or injury to the vaginal area and require reconstructive surgery.

  4. Patients with vaginal atresia, a condition where the vagina is completely closed off or absent.

  5. Patients with vaginal stenosis, a condition characterized by a narrowing or tightening of the vagina.

  6. Patients with gender dysphoria who desire vaginoplasty as part of their gender transition.

Timeline

Before vaginoplasty:

  1. Consultation with a gynecologist or plastic surgeon to discuss the procedure and determine if the patient is a suitable candidate.
  2. Pre-operative assessments and tests to evaluate the patient’s overall health and identify any potential risks or complications.
  3. Counseling and education about the procedure, including the potential risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
  4. Preparing for surgery, which may involve stopping certain medications, fasting before the procedure, and arranging for post-operative care and support.

After vaginoplasty:

  1. Immediate recovery period in the hospital or surgical center, where the patient will be monitored for any complications and given pain medication as needed.
  2. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns or questions.
  3. Post-operative care, including instructions on wound care, hygiene, and activities to avoid during the recovery period.
  4. Physical therapy or dilation exercises to help maintain the newly created vagina’s size and shape.
  5. Psychotherapy or counseling to address any emotional or psychological challenges related to the surgery and adjust to the changes in the patient’s body.
  6. Long-term follow-up care to monitor the results of the surgery and address any complications or concerns that may arise.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with vaginoplasty?
  2. What is the recovery process like after vaginoplasty?
  3. How long will it take to see the final results of the surgery?
  4. Will I need to follow any special post-operative care instructions?
  5. How will vaginoplasty affect my sexual function and sensation?
  6. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of?
  7. What are the success rates of vaginoplasty in patients with my specific condition (e.g. Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome)?
  8. What are the alternatives to vaginoplasty that I should consider?
  9. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments before or after vaginoplasty?
  10. How experienced are you in performing vaginoplasty procedures, and what is your success rate?

Reference

Authors: Balthazar A, Zee RS, Lanning D, Herndon CDA. Journal: J Pediatr Urol. 2018 Aug;14(4):345. doi: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2018.04.006. Epub 2018 May 17. PMID: 30150131