Anatomic and functional results of laparoscopic-perineal neovagina construction by sigmoid colpoplasty in women with Rokitansky's syndrome

Background: The Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a rare congenital cause of primary amenorrhea, due to utero-vaginal agenesis. Several surgical techniques have been used to create a neovagina. Neovagina construction with a sigmoid graft appears to be the best option, as it offers adequate length and natural lubrication, allowing early intercourse. However, few data are available on the complications, anatomic and functional results of laparoscopic-perineal neovagina construction by sigmoid colpoplasty. Methods: From September 1995 to November 2002, seven women with the MRKH syndrome underwent laparoscopic-perineal neovagina construction by sigmoid grafting. Results: The mean operating time was 312 min (range 220-450 min). The mean fall in haemoglobin was 3.6 g/dl (range 2-4.4 g/dl). Blood transfusion was never necessary. The only perioperative complications were one urinary tract infection and one vulvar haematoma not requiring drainage. The mean hospital stay was 7.7 days (range 6-12 days). The mean length of the neovagina was 11.5 cm (range 7-15 cm), and no shrinkage occurred during follow-up. The neovaginal introitus admitted two fingers in breadth in five of the seven patients. Dilation of the introitus was required in the other two women. None of the four women who had intercourse experienced dyspareunia or discomfort. Conclusion: Our results confirm the feasibility of laparoscopic-perineal neovagina construction by sigmoid colpoplasty, when performed by surgeons with extensive experience in both gynaecological and gastrointestinal laparoscopic surgery. The anatomic and functional results were good.