[Clinical study on laparoscopic technique for vaginoplasty using an ileum with long vascular pedicle].

Objective: To study the operative methods and clinical outcome of laparoscopic ileal colpopoiesis with long vascular pedicle.

Methods: We reviewed 31 cases which had received ileal colpopoiesis, including 25 cases of congenital absence of vagina and 6 cases of male-to-female trans-sex. All cases were operated on by laparoscopic (8 cases) and laparoscopy assisted (23 cases) ileal colpopoiesis. The postoperative results were analyzed through physical examination and interview regarding the patient's functional status and satisfaction during sexual intercourse.

Results: Ileal colpopoiesis were preformed successfully on all 31 cases. Follow-ups of 3-13 months were done for all of them. Patients used vaginal mould for at least 8 months. All artificial vaginas had excellent cosmetic results, including adequate vaginal length, good lubrication, and appearance and physical functions similar to female natural vagina, and sexual function was reportedly satisfactory. One of the patients had an operative complication of an intestinal obstruction, which was cured by a second operation and other treatments.

Conclusions: The laparoscopic and laparoscopy assisted ileal vaginoplasty is a feasible, safe and ideal method of current vaginoplasty due to its minor damage, excellent cosmetic results and similarity to normal vaginal features. However, vaginal mould should be used for a long period of time (at least 8 months) after an operation, to prevent vaginal orifice shrinkage.