Beyond the tip of the iceberg: A meta-analysis of the anatomy of the clitoris.

An understanding of ranges in clitoral anatomy is important for clinicians caring for patients including those who have had female genital mutilation, women seeking genital cosmetic surgery, or trans women seeking reconstructive surgery. The aim of this meta-analysis is to investigate the ranges in clitoral measurements within the literature. A meta-analysis was performed on Ovid Medline and Embase databases following the PRISMA protocol. Measurements of clitoral structures from magnetic imaging resonance, ultrasound, cadaveric, and living women were extracted and analyzed. Twenty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. The range in addition to the average length and width of the glans (6.40 mm; 5.14 mm), body (25.46 mm; 9.00 mm), crura (52.41 mm; 8.71 mm), bulb (52.00 mm; 10.33 mm), and prepuce (23.19 mm) was calculated. Furthermore, the range and average distance from the clitoris to the external urethral meatus (22.27 mm), vagina (43.14 mm), and anus (76.30 mm) was documented. All erectile and non-erectile structures of the clitoris present with substantial range. It is imperative to expand the literature on clitoral measurements and disseminate the new results to healthcare professionals and the public to reduce the sense of inadequacy and the chances of iatrogenic damage during surgery.

3D quantitative analysis of normal clitoral anatomy in nulliparous women by MRI.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: We present a 3D computational approach for automated clitoral measurements. We hypothesized that computationally derived measurements would be comparable and less variable than reported manual measures. METHODS: In this retrospective study, MRIs of 22 nulliparous women age 20-49 years with normal vaginal and clitoral anatomy were collected. Manual segmentations were performed to reconstruct 3D models of the whole clitoris (glans, body, crura, and bulbs) and vagina. The length, width, and volume of the clitoral structures and the distance between the vagina and clitoral structures were calculated. Computed clitoral morphometrics (length, width) were compared to median [range] values from a previously published cadaver study (N = 22) using the median test and Moses extreme reaction test. Calculated distances were compared to mean (± SD) reported by a 2D MRI study (N = 20) using independent t-test and Levene's test. RESULTS: Overall, computed clitoral morphometrics were similar to manual cadaver measurements, where the majority of length and width measures had ~1-2 mm difference and had less variability (smaller range). All calculated distances were significantly smaller and had smaller SDs than manual 2D MRI values, with two-fold differences in the means and SDs. Large variation was observed in clitoral volumetric measures in our cohort. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed 3D computational method improves the standardization and consistency of clitoral measurements compared to traditional manual approaches. The use of this approach in radiographic studies will give better insight into how clitoral anatomy relates to sexual function and how both are impacted by gynecologic surgery, where outcomes can assist treatment planning.

The anatomical measurements of vulva in Indian women: A cross-sectional prospective study.

OBJECTIVE: To measure the anatomical dimensions of the vulva in adult Indian women. To analyze their correlations with age, body mass index (BMI), parity, and mode of delivery. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care university hospital in India, among 400 women aged 18 years and above. Various vulval measurements were taken, and Pearson's correction was applied to variables like age, BMI, parity, and mode of delivery. RESULTS: Mean length of glans of clitoris was 5.2 ± 1.43 mm, the labia minora width was 2.6 ± 0.74 cm, length of introitus was 1.3 ± 0.59 cm, and perineal body length was 2.3 ± 0.60 cm. The range of some measurements was extensive, for example labia minora width ranged from 0.7 to 4.9 cm. Normal centile curves were constructed for vulval measurements according to age groups. Statistically significant positive correlations of age, BMI, and obstetrical history were seen with labia minora width (r = 0.165, P = 0.001; r = 0.284, P < 0.001; r = 0.246, P < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: The centile curves can be used as a reference for the Indian population of different ages. These can be used when counseling women coming for female genital cosmetic surgery.

Anatomical study of the clitoris and its implications on female genital mutilation and surgical repair.

BACKGROUND: Worldwide, 200 million girls and women have been subjected to female genital mutilation. To restore the clitoral function and vulvar anatomy, clitoral repair has been performed since the 2000s. Nevertheless, there is a lack of precise and comprehensive data on the clitoral anatomy during surgical repair. This study aimed to precisely describe the terminal anatomies of the dorsal nerve and artery of the clitoris, and the clitoral neurovascular flap advancement for reconstruction in patients with female genital mutilation. METHODS: This study was performed on seven fresh female cadavers. The site of origin, diameter, length, and trajectory of each nerve and artery were recorded. The clitoral neurovascular flap advancement was measured after a midline transection of the suspensory ligament was performed and after extensive liberation of the dorsal bundles at their emergence from the pubic rami. RESULTS: At the distal point of the clitoral body, the width of the dorsal nerve and artery was 1.9 ± 0.3 mm and 0.9 ± 0.2 mm, respectively. The total length of the dorsal bundles was 6.6 cm (± 0.4). The midpart of the suspensory ligament was sectioned, which allowed a mean anteroposterior mobility of 2.7 cm (± 0.2). Extensive dissection of the neurovascular bundles up to their point of emergence from the suspensory ligament allowed a mean mobility of 3.4 ± 0.2 cm. CONCLUSION: We described the anatomical characteristics of the dorsal nerve and artery of the clitoris and the mobility of the clitoral neurovascular flap for reconstruction post clitoridectomy. This was done to restore the anatomic position of the glans clitoris while preserving and potentially restoring clitoral function in patients with female genital mutilation.

A first radiotherapy application of functional bulboclitoris anatomy, a novel female sexual organ-at-risk, and organ-sparing feasibility study.

OBJECTIVE: The bulboclitoris (clitoris and vestibular bulbs) is the primary organ responsible for female sexual arousal and orgasm. Effects of radiotherapy on the bulboclitoris are unknown, as its structure/function has yet to be described in radiotherapy, and it overlaps only partially with the external genitalia structure. Our aim was to: describe bulboclitoris structure, function and delineation; compare volume of and dose delivered to the bulboclitoris vs external genitalia; and, compare bulboclitoris-sparing IMRT (BCS-IMRT) to standard IMRT (S-IMRT) to determine reoptimization feasibility. METHODS: Our expert team (anatomist, pelvic radiologist, radiation oncologist) reviewed bulboclitoris anatomy and developed contouring guidance for radiotherapy. 20 female patients with anal cancer treated with chemoradiation were analyzed. Sexual organs at risk (OARs) included the external genitalia and the bulboclitoris. Volumes, dice similarity coefficients (DSCs) and dose received using S-IMRT were compared. Plans were reoptimized using BCS-IMRT. Dose-volume histograms (DVHs) for PTVs and all OARs were compared for BCS-IMRT vs S-IMRT. RESULTS: Bulboclitoris structure, function and delineation are described herein. The bulboclitoris occupies 20cc (IQR:12-24), largely distinct from the external genitalia (DSC <0.05). BCS-IMRT was superior to S-IMRT in reducing the dose to the bulboclitoris, with the greatest reductions in V30 and V40, with no significant changes in dose to other OARs or PTV 1/V95. CONCLUSION: The bulboclitoris can be contoured on planning imaging, largely distinct from the external genitalia. Compared with S-IMRT, BCS-IMRT dramatically reduced dose to the bulboclitoris in anal cancer planning. BCS-IMRT might safely reduce sexual toxicity compared with standard approaches. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE: The structure and function of the bulboclitoris, the critical primary organ responsible for female sexual arousal and orgasm, has yet to be described in the radiotherapy literature. Structure, function and delineation of the bulboclitoris are detailed, delineation and bulboclitoris-sparing IMRT were feasible, and sparing reduces the dose to the bulboclitoris nearly in half in female patients receiving IMRT for anal cancer, warranting further clinical study.

Anatomy, histology, and nerve density of clitoris and associated structures: clinical applications to vulvar surgery.

BACKGROUND: A precise understanding of structures comprising the female external genitalia is essential in obstetric and gynecologic practice. OBJECTIVE: To further characterize the anatomy, histology, and nerve density of the clitoris and associated structures, and to provide clinical correlations to vulvar surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Unembalmed female cadavers were examined. The length and width of the body, glans, and crura of the clitoris were measured. Distances from the glans to the urethra and from the dorsal surface of the clitoral body to the mid pubic arch were recorded. The path of the dorsal nerve of the clitoris was examined, and the nerve width was measured as it emerged from the lateral surface of crura and at the distal clitoral body. Distances from where the dorsal nerve emerged from the perineal membrane to the posterior surface of the membrane and to mid pubic arch were measured. Connective tissue layers associated with the clitoris were examined. Tissue was harvested from additional unembalmed cadavers, and nerve density of the labia minora, glans, and clitoral body were analyzed. Histological examination was performed on vulvar structures to clarify tissue composition. Descriptive statistics were used for data analyses. RESULTS: A total of 27 cadavers (aged 48-96 years) were examined, 22 grossly and 5 histologically. The median length and width of clitoral body were 29 mm (range, 13-59 mm) and 9 mm (range, 5-14 mm), respectively. The glans was 8 mm (range, 5-12 mm) long and 4 mm (range, 3-10 mm) wide. The length of the crura was 50 mm (range, 25-68 mm), and the width at the anterior portion was 9 mm (range, 2-13 mm). The closest distance from the glans to the urethra was 25 mm (range, 14-37 mm) and from the clitoral body to the mid pubic arch was 29 mm (range, 14-46 mm). The widths of the dorsal nerve at the lateral crura and at the distal clitoral body were 3 mm (range, 2-4 mm) and 1 mm (range, 1-2 mm), respectively. The distance from the dorsal nerve as it emerged from the perineal membrane to the mid pubic arch was 34 mm (range, 20-48 mm) and to the posterior surface of the membrane was 20 mm (range, 8-31 mm). The dorsal nerve and artery of the clitoris coursed adjacent to the medial surface of the inferior pubic ramus surrounded by a dense fibrous capsule adherent to the periosteum. The nerve and artery then coursed deep to dense connective tissue layers, which were contiguous with the suspensory ligament and fascia of the clitoris. Histologic examination revealed the presence of erectile tissue in the clitoral body, crura, and vestibular bulbs, but such tissue was absent in the glans and labia minora. Nerve density analysis revealed statistically significant greater density in the dorsal compared with ventral half of the clitoral body. Although not statistically significant, there was increased nerve density in the distal compared to the proximal half of the labia minora. CONCLUSION: Precise knowledge of clitoral anatomy and associated neurovascular structures is essential to safely complete partial vulvectomies, clitoral and vulvar reconstructive procedures, anti-incontinence surgeries, and repair of obstetric lacerations. Understanding the range of anatomic variations and awareness of the areas of increased nerve density is important during counseling and surgical planning. Although the dorsal nerve of the clitoris courses deep to dense connective tissue layers, inadvertent injury may occur in the setting of deep dissection or suture placement. The dorsal nerve seems most vulnerable with surgical entry or lacerations that extend from the midline of the prepuce to the inferior pubic rami.

Anogenital distance is determined during early gestation in humans.

STUDY QUESTION: Does cord blood androgen level obtained at birth affect the AGD in human newborns? SUMMARY ANSWER: In human newborns, though males have a significantly longer AGD compared to females (as early as 22 weeks of gestation) the AGD is not affected by androgen levels at birth in both the sexes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Animal studies have reported a critical time period in early fetal life, termed the masculinization programming window (MPW) during which AGD is fixed by in utero androgen action and is unaffected by testosterone levels later during gestation. Thus, AGD may serve as a lifelong biomarker of androgen exposure during this window. This MPW is hypothesized to occur in humans at 8-14 weeks of gestation during which AGD is fixed. The effect of androgens (testosterone) on AGD after the MPW in humans is not known. Furthermore, altered AGD has been associated with various human reproductive health disorders in both males and females. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: A prospective descriptive cohort study was performed using data from randomly selected neonates (n = 205) born at a single center over a period of 1 year (August 2015 to August 2016). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: AGDs in male (n = 117) and female infants (n = 88) together with penile width, glans girth and stretched penile length were measured by trained caregivers. Gestation ranged from 22 to 41 weeks and infants were examined within 24 h of birth (within 48-72 h in very sick preterm infants after clinical stabilization). AGD-1 was measured from the center of the anus to the posterior base of scrotum in males or to the posterior fourchette in females. AGD-2 was measured from the center of the anus to the anterior base of the penis in males or to the clitoris in females. Sex steroid hormones (testosterone, 17-OH progesterone (17-OHP) and androstenedione) were measured in serum prepared from umbilical cord blood samples taken at birth, using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: Males had a significantly lower gestational age (mean ± SD; 34.6 ± 4.9 versus 36.1 ± 4.1 weeks, P = 0.04), and a significantly longer AGD-1 (mean ± SD; 21.6 ± 6.0 versus 12.7 ± 3.8 mm, P < 0.001) and AGD-2 (41.9 ± 8.7 versus 33.9 ± 7.1 mm, P = 0.004) compared to female infants, respectively. The cord serum testosterone levels were significantly higher for male than female infants [median, interquartile range; 13.0 (7.3, 20.5) versus 4.1 (2.5, 5.9), ng/dl, P < 0.001]. There was no difference in levels of 17-OHP (P = 0.697) or androstenedione (P = 0.601) between the two sexes. On multiple regression analysis after adjusting for potential confounders, none of the AGD's in both males and females correlated with any sex steroid hormonal levels. We also provide normative charts for penile length, penile width and glans girth in preterm and term infants. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: No data were collected on family history of genital malformation, infertility or hormonal disorders, parental endocrine-disrupting chemical exposure or diet pattern, any of which might have influenced the AGD and/or sex steroid hormone levels in the offspring. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: Our results suggest that AGD in humans, like animals, is fixed in early gestation (likely during the hypothesized MPW) and is unaffected by androgen levels thereafter. Thus, AGD can serve as a biomarker of in utero androgen action during early gestation (likely 8-14 weeks) in humans. As such, causes of human newborn and adult reproductive health disorders, such as endocrine disruptors, should be explored during early gestation. However, further larger studies are needed to help corroborate these findings. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS: No specific funding was obtained for this study, and all authors have no conflict of interest to declare.

Ovarian response is associated with anogenital distance in patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation for IVF.

STUDY QUESTION: Is the length of the anogenital distance (AGD) a biomarker of ovarian reserve and response to controlled ovarian stimulation (COS)? SUMMARY ANSWER: Shorter AGD is associated with presence of poor ovarian response. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Organ development during prenatal life is influenced by the prevailing intrauterine environment, and it has been suggested that nutritional, environmental and toxic factors could affect ovarian reserve set prenatally. AGD is a biomarker of prenatal-hormonal environment and observational studies have shown an association between its length and reproductive parameters in both sexes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: This was a prospective cohort study of 437 women treated with IVF/ICSI conducted in a tertiary-care university hospital between January and December 2016. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: All women underwent their first COS for IVF/ICSI and reached criteria for oocyte retrieval. Based on the number of oocytes obtained, patients were divided into three groups: poor responders (≤3 oocytes) (n = 50), normoresponders (4-15 oocytes) (n = 332) and high responders (>15 oocytes) (n = 55). Before retrieval, the following patient data were recorded: age, body mass index (BMI), ovarian reserve markers (anti-Müllerian hormone [AMH], antral follicle count [AFC] and follicular stimulation hormone [FSH]), cause of infertility, total doses of gonadotropins used and ovarian sensitivity index (OSI). Patients with previous pregnancies, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis and previous ovarian or genital surgery were excluded. Anthropometric biomarkers of AGDAC (anus-clitoris) and AGDAF (anus-fourchette) were measured in all patients under sedation on the day of retrieval and before proceeding to oocyte pick-up. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to examine the association between both AGD and ovarian reserve markers, the total units of gonadotropins used, the number of oocytes obtained and the OSI. Logistic regression was used to predict poor response in COS for IVF/ICSI, while accounting for confounders such as age and BMI. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: Baseline FSH, AMH, AFC and age were significantly different among the three groups of ovarian response, as were the units of gonadotropin used, and the ovarian sensitivity index (OSI) (P < 0.001). Both AGDAC and AGDAF measurements were positively correlated with AMH levels (r = 0.38 and r = 0.21; P < 0.05), AFC (r = 0.41 and r = 0.20; P < 0.05), the OSI (r = 0.24 and r = 0.19; P < 0.05) and the number of oocytes retrieved (r = 0.29 and r = 0.28, respectively; P < 0.05). Conversely, there was a negative correlation between both AGD measurements and the doses of gonadotropins used (r= -0.19 and r= -0.15; P < 0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) for prediction of poor response of AGDAC was 0.70 (95% CI 0.66, 0.75), which was comparable to the classic ovarian reserve markers, such as AFC and AMH. AGDAF showed a significantly worse predictive capacity for poor ovarian response (AUC 0.60 [95% CI 0.55, 0.60]) than AMH and AFC. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: The population used for the study was a highly selected group of infertile women who underwent COS for IVF, so the findings of this research may not be applicable for general population. Besides, measurement or selection biases might have been possible and must be considered. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: The findings of this study suggest that in utero exposure to certain hormonal environments could affect the ovarian reserve set prenatally. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): None. The authors have no competing interests to declare.

Nova classificação para hipertrofia dos pequenos lábios vaginais e correlação com as técnicas cirúrgicas indicadas / New classification of hypertrophy of the labia minora and correlation with indicated surgical techniques

Introdução: Primeira colocada entre as mais procuradas cirurgias plásticas genitais, a ninfoplastia ou labioplastia visa a correção da hipertrofia dos pequenos lábios vaginais e prepúcio, retirando seu excesso, sem interferir na sua função de proteção da vagina e auxílio na lubrificação genital. Diversos tipos de classificações foram propostos para facilitar a compreensão do grau de hipertrofia dos pequenos lábios vaginais e ajudar na escolha da técnica da labioplastia. Após analisar várias classificações, o autor propõe uma nova classificação, no intuito de facilitar a compreensão da hipertrofia das ninfas, capuz do clitóris e prepúcio e ajudar na escolha da técnica apropriada para labioplastia. Métodos: Foi feita uma busca na literatura médica PubMed/Medline com os termos hipertrofia lábios vaginais, labioplastia, labiaplasty, labioplasty, lábia minora hipertrophy, labial protrusion. Foram analisadas todas as classificações descritas nos trabalhos encontrados. Resultados: Uma nova classificação foi proposta. A hipertrofia dos pequenos lábios vaginais foi classificada em 4 graus: Grau 0 (≤ 1 cm), Grau 1 (> 1 cm e ≤ 3 cm), Grau 2 (> 3 cm e ≤ 5 cm) e Grau 3 (> 5 cm). Conclusões: A nova classificação, além de facilitar a compreensão do tamanho e extensão da hipertrofia das ninfas, também auxilia na escolha da técnica a ser escolhida para a labioplastia.

Introduction: Nymphoplasty or labioplasty is the most common genital plastic surgery. The objective of labioplasty is to correct hypertrophy of the labia minora and clitoral prepuce, removing excess tissue without affecting their function of protecting the vagina and aiding in genital lubrication. Several types of classifications have been proposed to facilitate the understanding of the degree of hypertrophy of the labia minora and assist in selecting the most suitable procedure in labioplasty. After analyzing several classifications, the author proposes a new classification to facilitate the understanding of hypertrophy of the labia minora, clitoral hood, and vaginal prepuce and help select the best labioplasty procedure. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed/Medline using the following terms: hipertrofia lábios vaginais, labioplastia, labiaplasty, labioplasty, labia minora hypertrophy, and labial protrusion. All the classifications described in the identified studies were analyzed. Results: A new classification has been proposed. Hypertrophy of the labia minora was classified in four grades: grade 0 (≤ 1 cm), grade 1 (> 1 cm and ≤ 3 cm), grade 2 (> 3 cm and ≤ 5 cm), and grade 3 (> 5 cm). Conclusions: The new classification improves the understanding of the size and extent of hypertrophy of the labia minora and helps select the best procedure in labioplasty.

The effectiveness of surgical interventions for women with FGM/C: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) changes normal genital functionality and can cause complications. There is an increasing demand for treatment of FGM/C-related complications. OBJECTIVES: We conducted a systematic review of empirical quantitative research on the outcomes of interventions for women with FGM/C-related complications. SEARCH STRATEGY: A search specialist searched 16 electronic databases. SELECTION CRITERIA: Selection was performed independently by two researchers. We accepted quantitative studies that examined the outcome of an intervention for an FGM/C-related concern. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We extracted data into a pre-designed form, calculated effect estimates, and performed meta-analyses. MAIN RESULTS: We included 62 studies (5829 women), which investigated the effect of defibulation, excision of cysts, and clitoral reconstruction. Meta-analyses of defibulation versus no defibulation showed a significantly lower risk of caesarean section (relative risk, RR: 0.33; 95% confidence interval, 95% CI: 0.25-0.45) and perineal tears with defibulation: second-degree tear (RR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.24-0.79), third-degree tear (RR: 0.21, 95% CI: 0.05-0.94), fourth-degree tear (RR: 0.06, 95% CI: 0.01-0.41). The meta-analyses detected no significant differences in obstetric outcomes of antenatal versus intrapartum defibulation. Except for one study, none of the studies on the excision of cysts indicated any complications, and the results were deemed favourable. Reconstructive surgery resulted in a visible clitoris in about 77% of women. Most women self-reported improvements in their sexual life, but up to 22% experienced a worsening in sexuality-related outcomes after reconstruction. CONCLUSIONS: Women with FGM/C who seek therapeutic surgery should be informed about the scarcity of evidence for benefits and the potential harms of the available procedures. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT: Systematic review shows defibulation after FGM/C has obstetric benefits; effect of reconstruction is uncertain.

Anatomy of genital reaffirmation surgery (male-to-female): Vaginoplasty using penile skin graft with scrotal flaps.

Gender reaffirmation surgery is the final step in an individual's transition to their preferred gender. A clear understanding of the anatomy pertinent to this procedure is essential by the surgeon and patient. In male-to-female transgenders, female genitalia is constructed using the individual's penile skin to form the neovaginal canal and their scrotal skin folds post orchiectomy to create the labia majora. The surgical precursors of the remaining anatomical structures of the female genitalia are as follows: the clitoris is crafted from the glans penis and hence retains its innervation, the labia minora is formed using excess penile skin tissue, and the long male urethra is shortened to that of its feminine counterpart. The main goal of these reconstructive methods is to create a functionally and aesthetically acceptable vagina and vulva, as well as normal voiding function and satisfactory sexual function. Surgical text descriptions were enhanced by the creation of new anatomic illustrations. Review of the relevant literature regarding the anatomy, procedure development, and outcomes is presented. Vaginoplasty utilizing penile skin grafts with scrotal flaps provides an aesthetically acceptable and psychologically satisfying results with normal voiding and sexual function. An advantage includes preserved erogenous sensation. Complications can arise, including chronic inflammation and fistula formation. The anatomy of vaginoplasty using penile skin grafts with scrotal flaps supports patients seeking male-to-female gender reaffirmation surgery. Clin. Anat. 31:140-144, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The anatomy of forearm free flap phalloplasty for transgender surgery.

Transgender surgeries are becoming more frequent and visual interpretation of anatomy is essential for both surgeons and patients. Since the forearm free flap phalloplasty was introduced in 1984, it has been known to provide reliable cosmetic and functional results for transitioning men compared with phalloplasty by different flaps. Surgical text descriptions were enhanced by the creation of new anatomic illustrations. The forearm free flap consists of the anterior forearm skin, subcutaneous tissue, fascia containing the radial artery as the perforator and its venae comitantes, cephalic and basilic veins, and lateral and medial antebrachial cutaneous nerves are demonstrated in relation to the surgically derived flap. Song's forearm free flap phalloplasty requires two surgical stages with a three-month interval between the stages: prelamination of a neourethra and construction of a neophallus. The neophallus created by forearm flap phalloplasty is reported to achieve acceptable aesthetical and psychological satisfaction, appropriate size and shape, and satisfying sexual intercourse. Despite increasing experiences in gender confirming surgery with modifications made by many authors, urethral complications including fistula and/or stricture formation are the leading causes of reoperation. The poor esthetic outcome of the forearm donor site and a decrease in rigidity of the neophallus are the main limitations. Illustrations of anatomy help inform surgical choice and understanding of risks and benefits by patients. The anatomy of the free forearm flap phalloplasty supports creation of a neophallus for transsexual anatomy revision. Clin. Anat. 31:145-151, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The anatomy of abdominal flap phalloplasty for transgender surgery.

Abdominal flap phalloplasty is surgical construction of a neophallus using a pedicled abdominal flap for patients transitioning female to male, for males whose penis is congenitally absent, or lost from trauma. It is an option for trans men whose goals do not require urethroplasty or vaginectomy but would like a phallus suitable for male gender appearance. A prosthesis can be placed for penetrative sexual capability. Surgical text descriptions were enhanced by creation of new anatomic illustrations. Anatomy of donor site and surgical technique leading to creation of the neophallus are demonstrated in detail with new relevant illustrations. Significant structures of the donor site of the abdominal flap include the superficial external pudendal artery and ilioinguinal nerve that provide the blood supply and sensory innervation to the base of the flap, respectively. As a pedicled phalloplasty procedure, microsurgical anastomosis is not needed. Patients can expect to have tactile sensation but not innate rigidity. The dorsal nerve of clitoris (and sometimes the clitoris itself) is preserved to provide erogenous sensation. Abdominal flap phalloplasty makes it possible to maintain the natural blood supply and innervation to the neophallus. The neophallus created by abdominal flap phalloplasty has the advantage of homogeneous skin color and texture from contiguous skin. Grafting leaves a less stigmatizing horizontal scar running from one side of the pelvis to the other along the lower abdomen. The anatomy of the abdominal flap phalloplasty supports creation of a neophallus for transsexual anatomy revision. Clin. Anat. 31:181-186, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

MR Imaging of the Female Perineum: Clitoris, Labia, and Introitus.

The female perineum has a complex anatomy and can be involved by a wide range of pathologies. In this article, we specifically focus on the clitoris, labia, and introitus. We discuss the normal anatomy of these structures, the MR imaging techniques to optimize their evaluation, and several common and uncommon entities that may affect them, including benign and malignant tumors, as well as infectious and inflammatory, vascular, iatrogenic, and developmental entities.

Human anogenital distance: an update on fetal smoke-exposure and integration of the perinatal literature on sex differences.

STUDY QUESTION: Do sex and maternal smoking effects on human fetal anogenital distance (AGD) persist in a larger study and how do these data integrate with the wider literature on perinatal human AGD, especially with respect to sex differences? SUMMARY ANSWER: Second trimester sex differences in AGD are broadly consistent with neonatal and infant measures of AGD and maternal cigarette smoking is associated with a temporary increase in male AGD in the absence of changes in circulating testosterone. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: AGD is a biomarker of fetal androgen exposure, a reduced AGD in males being associated with cryptorchidism, hypospadias and reduced penile length. Normative fetal AGD data remain partial and windows of sensitivity of human fetal AGD to disruption are not known. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: The effects of fetal sex and maternal cigarette smoking on the second trimester (11-21 weeks of gestation) human fetal AGD were studied, along with measurement of testosterone and testicular transcripts associated with apoptosis and proliferation. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING METHODS: AGD, measured from the centre of the anus to the posterior/caudal root of penis/clitoris (AGD(app)) was determined in 56 female and 70 male morphologically normal fetuses. These data were integrated with current literature on perinatal AGD in humans. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: At 11-13 weeks of gestation male fetal AGD(app) was 61% (P< 0.001) longer than in females, increasing to 70% at 17-21 weeks. This sexual dimorphism was independent of growth characteristics (fetal weight, length, gonad weight). We confirmed that at 14-16 weeks of gestation male fetal AGD(app) was increased 28% (P < 0.05) by in utero cigarette smoke exposure. Testosterone levels were not affected by smoking. To develop normative data, our findings have been integrated with available data from in vivo ultrasound scans and neonatal studies. Inter-study variations in male/female AGD differences lead to the conclusion that normalization and standardization approaches should be developed to enable confidence in comparing data from different perinatal AGD studies. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: Sex differences, and a smoking-dependent increase in male fetal AGD at 14-16 weeks, identified in a preliminary study, were confirmed with a larger number of fetuses. However, human fetal AGD should, be re-assessed once much larger numbers of fetuses have been studied and this should be integrated with more detailed analysis of maternal lifestyle. Direct study of human fetal genital tissues is required for further mechanistic insights. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: Fetal exposure to cigarette smoke chemicals is known to lead to reduced fertility in men and women. Integration of our data into the perinatal human AGD literature shows that more work needs to be done to enable reliable inter-study comparisons. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS: The study was supported by grants from the Chief Scientist Office (Scottish Executive, CZG/1/109 & CZG/4/742), NHS Grampian Endowments (08/02), the European Community's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013) under grant agreement no 212885 and the Medical Research Council, UK (MR/L010011/1). The authors declare they have no competing interests, be it financial, personal or professional.

Anatomy of the clitoris and its impact on neophalloplasty (metoidioplasty) in female transgenders.

The current management of female to male transgender surgery is based on the advances in neophalloplasty, perioperative care and the knowledge of the female genital anatomy, as well as the changes that occur to this anatomy with preoperative hormonal changes in transgender population. Since the clitoris plays the main role in female sexual satisfaction, its impact on the outcome in female to male transgender surgery is predictable. Although female genital anatomy was poorly described in majority of anatomical textbooks, recent studies have provided a better insight in important details such as neurovascular supply, ligaments, body configuration, and relationship with urethral/vaginal complex. This article aims to review current state of knowledge of the clitoral anatomy as well its impact on clitoral reconstruction in female to male sex reassignment surgery.

Morphological and Morphometric Description of Female Reproductive Tract of Sapajus apella (Capuchin monkey).

Forest destruction has progressively hampered the survival of many species, and this is why it is so important to study of the lives of primates in captivity. This study aimed to describe the morphological aspects of the female reproductive tract of Sapajus apella. We used five animals obtained from the National Primate Center, Ananindeua - PA. The ovaries were paired, compact and symmetrical and had a smooth surface. The uterine tubes were bilateral and convoluted in adult animals and straight in young individuals. The uterus was simple and located in the pelvic region. The vagina was a long structure due to the position of the uterus. The external genitalia were located in the urogenital perineum and consisted of dark pigmented labia majora and labia minora, a vaginal vestibule as long as the vagina and a well-developed clitoris. The results showed that the genitals of S. apella resemble those of other Neotropical primates.

Measurements of female genital appearance in Chinese adults seeking genital cosmetic surgery: a preliminary report from a gynecological center.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Accurate and comprehensive measurements of the external genitalia in female adults are of great significance in surgery designs and for aesthetic evaluation in genital plastic surgeries. The authors carried out a 319-case study and provided baseline data and morphometric reference for plastic surgery involving the genital deformity caused by trauma or burns and male-to-female transsexual operations. METHODS: Our study design recruited 319 women referred to the out-patient clinic from August 2010 to August 2013. From each individual we measured 16 parameters and assessed the significance of variations in age, height, weight, BMI, and marital status (as a proxy for parity). We tried to establish a female external genitalia database of the population presenting for cosmetic surgery and define the general proportions of female genitalia in Chinese adults from the data we obtained. RESULTS: A wide range of values was noted in female genital measurements especially in labia minora parameters. Four parameters, including clitoral prepuce length, clitoris to urethra, labial length, and perineal body length had a proportional relationship to some extent. The position of the clitoris and urethral orifice was found to be regular in female adults. Compared with unmarried women, perineal body length decreased (P = 0.048), while the apex to perineum (bilateral) and labial length increased (P = 0.005, 0.006, <0.0001) in those who were married. Several parameters were statistically significantly associated with age, height, weight, BMI, and marital status. CONCLUSIONS: We presented an external genitalia database of Chinese female adults asking for cosmetic surgery. Although the ranges of genital measurements vary, there is a proportional relationship in female genital appearance, which should be heeded in surgical designs and genital aesthetic evaluation.