Simplified mons plasty: a new technique to improve cosmesis in females with the exstrophy-epispadias complex

Abstract

Purpose: Long-term data suggest that a significant number of women with the exstrophy-epispadias complex (EEC) report dissatisfaction with the cosmetic appearance of the genitalia. We developed a new technique of mons plasty in an attempt to improve the overall cosmetic appearance of the external genitalia in females with EEC.

Materials and methods: Nine consecutive females with a mean age of 6.4 years (range 2 days to 12.2 years) previously diagnosed with EEC underwent simplified mons plasty concomitantly with various other urological reconstructive procedures. Briefly, a simplified mons plasty was performed by approximating the bifid hemiclitoris and subsequently incising the lateral sulci between the labia majora and minora, which allowed the superomedial rotation of the labia majora and underlying peripubic adipose tissue, thus, recreating the mons.

Results: There were no perioperative complications. With a mean followup of 6 months (range 4 to 12) all patients had improved cosmesis with respect to a more prominent mons, more appropriately situated labia and adequately recessed introitus.

Conclusions: Simplified mons plasty improves cosmesis in females with external genital abnormalities secondary to EEC. Although our followup is admittedly short, we believe that this technique should be considered in the armamentarium of the reconstructive surgeon during the operative treatment of this complex group of patients.