The use of peritoneal tissue mobilised with a novel laparoscopic technique to reconstruct a neovagina

SummaryThe use of the peritoneum to construct the new lining of the vagina was described 40 years ago. However, the technique required open laparotomy and extensive dissection of the peritoneum and this technical difficulty and morbidities associated with the procedure reduced the acceptance of this technique. Subsequently, outcomes achievable from any neo-vaginoplastic techniques for a vaginal deformity, regardless of the aetiology, have been problematic due to peritoneal reflection at the pelvic floor, lack of ideal tissues to line a neovagina, and cicatricial contracture. The advent of the endoscope renewed interest in using peritoneal tissues in vaginal reconstruction, and peritoneal tissue mobilisation using forceps to grasp the tissue from below has been described. Here, we use a novel device to push a segment of mobilised peritoneum caudally into the vault. We have used this technique successfully in 12 individuals with congenital vaginal agenesis. Under laparoscopic guidance and from the pelvic cavity, a novel instrument was used to push peritoneal tissue down to the introitus, incised, and sutured to the margin of the skin and mucous membrane to form a new introitus. All the new peritoneal linings survived and the diameter, depth, and moisture of the neovaginas allowed for satisfactory sexual intercourse and did not produce unpleasant odour or excessive secretion. Advantages of this operative technique include its simplicity, the reduced possibility of severe complications in the abdominal cavity, the avoidance of severe morbidity in the perineal region, and the production of a functional, hygienic vagina. It is our preferred and recommended method to reconstruct the vagina.