Outcome of surgical reconstructive procedures for the treatment of vaginal anomalies

Congenital absence of the vagina: in search of the perfect solution. When, and by what technique, should a vagina be created?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the Mayer-von Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome and to address means of diagnosis, patient education and counselling. The timing of, and vast options for, creation of a functional vaginal are also discussed.

RECENT FINDINGS

The diagnosis of Mayer-von Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser usually occurs during an evaluation of primary amenorrhea. Counselling and support are of great importance for affected young women and their families. Educational materials have increased with the availability of Internet web sites and there is a vast number of options for creation of a functional vagina; most international centers promote the utilization of vaginal dilators.

SUMMARY

Young girls, adolescents and women with Mayer-von Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser should be offered a comprehensive evaluation, and presented with information regarding all options for management and support. Ongoing psycho-social and educational support is extremely important. International centers that focus on congenital anomalies of the reproductive tract should be developed. These centers of excellence will facilitate long-term follow up studies to improve patient care and evidence based medical options.

Developmental abnormalities of the female reproductive tract

Developmental abnormalities of the female reproductive tract are a group of heterogeneous anomalies that may also affect other organ systems. Our review outlines the diverse abnormalities, etiologies, modes of diagnosis, and treatment options currently available.

Reproductive disorders associated with pelvic pain

Pelvic pain is common in adolescents and can result from a number of physiological and pathological etiologies, both gynecologic and nongynecologic in origin. The evaluation, diagnosis, and management of these conditions involve both medical and surgical approaches. In this review, the authors present a comprehensive approach to the care of adolescents with pelvic pain associated with dysmenorrhea, endometriosis, and obstruction of the genital tract.