Peritoneal Vaginoplasty
Peritoneal vaginoplasty is a surgical technique used for creating or reconstructing a vagina using the peritoneum, a thin membrane that lines the inside of the abdominal cavity. This procedure is often applied within the context of gender affirmation for transgender women, as well as for women born without a vagina or those who have lost vaginal tissue due to disease or injury. Peritoneal vaginoplasty serves as an alternative to other techniques such as using penile skin or a segment of intestine, offering potential advantages in terms of natural lubrication and reduced risk of stenosis (narrowing).
Planning the surgery
As with all surgical procedures for reconstructing or creating a vagina, detailed medical and psychological evaluations are necessary. For patients undergoing transition, it is essential to confirm long-term gender dysphoria through psychological consultations. For medical conditions requiring reconstruction, the diagnosis is based on the anatomical and functional needs of the patient.
Surgical procedure
Peritoneal vaginoplasty involves several steps. The surgeon first selects an appropriate segment of peritoneum to create the vagina. This membrane is known for its ability to produce natural lubrication, which is a key advantage of this approach.
The isolated peritoneum segment is then shaped into a tubular structure and inserted into the space between the rectum and the bladder to form a new vaginal canal. In some cases, this operation may be supplemented with other materials such as tissue grafts for better support and functionality.
Postoperative Recovery
Recovery may require a short hospital stay, and patients are advised to avoid physical activities and follow postoperative care instructions to minimize the risk of complications such as infections or scarring. Postoperative monitoring includes regular medical exams to ensure proper recovery and functionality of the new vagina.
Peritoneal vaginoplasty offers good results in terms of functionality and aesthetics, with the potential to maintain natural vaginal lubrication, making it an attractive option for many patients. However, like any surgery, it is crucial for patients to discuss all aspects of the procedure with their surgical team, including expected outcomes, possible risks, and the duration of recovery.