A new technique of vaginal reconstruction using neurovascular pudendal-thigh flaps: a preliminary report
Wee, J.T.; Joseph, V.T.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 83(4): 701-709
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0032-1052 PMID: 2648427 Document Number: 344118
The blood supply to the skin of the perineum, medial groin, and upper thigh was studied in fresh female cadavers. The pudendal-thigh flap was designed as a result to reconstruct the vagina. The flaps are raised bilaterally in the groin crease just lateral to the labia majora and then are transposed toward the midline and sutured together to form a skin-lined cul-de-sac which opens at the introitus. The technique has been used successfully in three patients to reconstruct the vagina. The first patient, an adult, was reconstructed after total pelvic exenteration for malignancy, while two children had reconstructions for congenital vaginal anomalies. This technique is superior to currently available methods because it is simple and reliable. No stents or dilators are needed. It is safe technique without complications in our hands. The reconstructed vagina has a natural angle for intercourse and is sensate. The donor scars in the groin are well hidden.