Total urogenital sinus mobilization: a modified perineal approach for feminizing genitoplasty and urogenital sinus repair

Abstract

Purpose: We report a modification of the total urogenital sinus mobilization technique adapted to the repair of isolated persistent urogenital sinus and masculinized external female genitalia.

Materials and methods: The records of 6 girls undergoing total urogenital sinus mobilization were reviewed. Diagnosis was the adrenogenital syndrome in 4 girls, and persistent urogenital sinus and true hermaphroditism in 1 girl each. Mean patient age at the time of surgery was 5.9 years (range 4.5 months to 19.5 years). The surgical technique was modified by using the perineal approach since all patients had normal anorectal anatomy. A posterior perineal skin flap was used to widen the vaginal introitus. The wall of the mobilized urogenital sinus was opened and used to create a mucous lined vestibule. In those cases of the adrenogenital syndrome reduction clitoroplasty was performed at the same time. Postoperative results were assessed subjectively by observation of the vulvar appearance and objectively by determining the location of the urethral meatus and caliber of the vagina.

Results: Mean followup was 3.7 months (range 1 to 9). There were no postoperative complications. Most patients were discharged home within 3 days of surgery. All patients have a satisfactory cosmetic appearance. The urethral meatus was situated in the vestibule and easily accessible. There were no changes in voiding habits postoperatively in those patients who were toilet trained before surgery. Vaginal calibration was performed in 4 patients and mean vaginal caliber was 10.5 Hegar (range 6 to 14).

Conclusions: The repair of persistent urogenital sinus less than 3 cm. long can be accomplished with total urogenital sinus mobilization through the perineal approach. The technique can be combined with reduction clitoroplasty for the surgical management of girls with masculinized external genitalia.