Early vaginal replacement in cloacal malformation

Abstract

Purpose: We assessed the surgical outcome of cloacal malformation (CM) with emphasis on need and timing of vaginal replacement.

Methods: An ambispective study of CM was carried out including prospective cases from April 2014 to December 2017 and retrospective cases that came for routine follow-up. Early vaginal replacement was defined as that done at time of bowel pull through. Surgical procedures and associated complications were noted. The current state of urinary continence, faecal continence and renal functions was assessed.

Results: 18 patients with CM were studied with median age at presentation of 5 days (1 day-4 years). 18;3;2 babies underwent colostomy; vaginostomy; vesicostomy. All patients underwent posterior sagittal anorectovaginourethroplasty (PSARVUP)/ Pull through at a median age of 13 (4-46) months. Ten patients had long common channel length (> 3 cm). Six patients underwent early vaginal replacement at a median age of 14 (7-25) months with ileum; sigmoid colon; vaginal switch; hemirectum in 2;2;1;1. Three with long common channel who underwent only PSARVUP had inadequate introitus at puberty. Complications included anal mucosal prolapse, urethrovaginal fistula, perineal wound dehiscence, pyometrocolpos, bladder injury and pelvic abscess. Persistent vesicoureteric reflux remained in 8. 5;2 patients had urinary; faecal incontinence. 2 patients of uterus didelphys are having menorrhagia. One patient succumbed to sepsis at 7 months age. Renal functions remained normal in 16. One patient is undergoing dialysis.

Conclusion: Early vaginal replacement in CM is feasible. Patients with inadequate introitus may suffer from menorrhagia. A regular follow-up is mandatory.

Keywords: Cloaca; Paediatric vaginal reconstruction; Vaginoplasty.