Safety and efficacy of non-ablative CO2 laser treatment of vulvo-vaginal atrophy in women with history of breast cancer.

PURPOSE: Breast cancer survivors (BCS) suffer severe vulvo-vaginal atrophy (VVA) and some of the most effective therapies are contraindicated. In literature we have no data about the non-ablative CO2 laser on these women. The aim of this study was to examine its efficacy, safety and acceptability in BCS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The enrolled women underwent 3 sessions of laser therapy (t0, t1, t2) and a one-month follow up examination (t3). At each time point we measured objective signs of VVA via VHI (Vaginal Health Index) and VuHI (Vulvar Health Index) and subjective parameters (Dryness, Burning, Itching, Dysuria) via visual analog scales (VAS). In sexually active women we evaluated the sexual function with FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index), FSDS (Female Sexual Distress Score) scores and MENQOL (menopause quality of life questionnaire). RESULTS: We enrolled 26 BCS. The mean VHI, VuVHI, dryness and burning VAS scores improved significantly and this improvement was not influenced by the initial VVA grade. MENQOL sexual domain, Lubrication, Orgasm and Pain domains and FSFI total score improved significantly, while Desire, Arousal and Satisfaction domains of FSFI and FSDS did not. At t0 women using Aromatase Inhibitors suffered more severe vaginal dryness than women using Tamoxifen or no therapy, but the three subgroups improved without differences. No adverse event and minimum discomfort were reported. CONCLUSIONS: The non-ablative CO2 laser is a safe and effective treatment of VVA and has positive effects on sexual function in BCS regardless the use of adjuvant therapies and the initial grade of VVA.

Neonatal Single-Stage Surgical Management of Complicated Distal Vaginal Atresia: Revisiting an Appropriate and Feasible Technique.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Hydrometrocolpos is distension of the vagina and uterus with fluid other than pus or blood. It is due to distal vaginal obstruction, and one of its possible causes is agenesis of the distal vagina. Patients with distal vaginal atresia may present in the neonatal period due to stimulation of uterine and cervical glands by maternal estrogen. In this study, we presented our results in managing neonates with complicated hydrometrocolpos due to distal vaginal atresia through a single-stage abdomino-perineal pull-through vaginoplasty. METHODS: During the period from July 2003 to June 2018, neonates presented to the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University with complicated hydrometrocolpos (complicated with obstructive uropathy, intestinal obstruction, urinary tract infection, or systemic sepsis) due to distal vaginal atresia were included in the study. All the patients underwent single-stage abdomino-perineal pull-through vaginoplasty with drainage of the accumulated fluid. The patients were followed up for re-accumulation of fluid or vaginal stenosis for at least 4 years after the procedure. RESULTS: During the specified period, 14 neonates with complicated hydrometrocolpos due to distal vaginal atresia (complicated with obstructive uropathy, intestinal obstruction, urinary tract infection, or systemic sepsis) presented to the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University and underwent single-stage abdomino-perineal pull-through vaginoplasty with drainage of the accumulated fluid. Their age ranged between 4 and 18 days (mean 10, median 8). Two patients (14%) developed vaginal stenosis, which responded well to dilatation, and none of the patients had re-accumulation of the fluid during the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Single-stage abdomino-perineal pull-through vaginoplasty in neonates with complicated distal vaginal atresia (complicated with obstructive uropathy, intestinal obstruction, urinary tract infection, or systemic sepsis) is an appropriate and feasible technique with a satisfactory outcome. TYPE OF THE STUDY: Treatment study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE RATING: IV.

Horizontal versus vertical direction of posterior vaginal wall suture after eradication of rectovaginal endometriosis: A multicenter study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare safety and effectiveness of two-different directions of suturing the posterior vaginal breach (horizontal [Ho] vs vertical [Ve]) in women undergoing recto-vaginal endometriosis (RVE) nodule resection. METHODS: A multicenter, retrospective, observational, cohort study was performed including all women of reproductive age undergoing RVE nodule resection between March 2013 and December 2018 at our tertiary centers. Patients included in the present study were divided into two groups based on the direction in suturing the posterior vaginal fornix defect, for comparisons in terms of rate of postoperative complications, pain relief, pain and anatomical recurrence, and length of hospital stay. Univariate comparisons were performed adopting the t test or the Mann-Whitney test for continuous data and the chi-square test or the Fisher exact test for categorical data, with a significant P value set to <0.05. RESULTS: A total of 101 women were included: 67 in the Ho-group and 34 in the Ve-group. The two groups did not significantly differ in length of hospital stay (6.7 ± 6.9 vs 6.6 ± 3.3 days; P = 0.95), overall postoperative complications (32.8% vs 14.7%; P = 0.05), pain recurrence (35.8% vs 26.5%; P = 0.34) and anatomical recurrence rate (19.4% vs 23.5%; P = 0.62). Conversely, grade III complications were significantly more common in the Ho-group than in the Ve-group (22.7% vs 20%, P = 0.009), while pain relief in terms of deep dyspareunia, dyschezia, dysuria and chronic pelvic pain was more consistent in the Ve-group patients (P = 0.04, 0.04, 0.05, 0.004, respectively). CONCLUSION: In symptomatic women undergoing RVE nodule resection, Ho suturing of the vaginal breach appears more commonly associated with severe postoperative complications and a worse pain control.

Hydrometrocolpos: a Contemporary Review of the Last 5 Years.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The goal of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of hydrometrocolpos, covering disease etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and diagnostic and management techniques, and known outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS: This narrative review presents the literature on hydrometrocolpos in the pediatric population from the past 5 years. We highlight the 69 reported cases of hydrometrocolpos and classify them based on type of obstruction or associated anomaly, discuss new diagnostic algorithms based on imaging, and present novel and underutilized surgical techniques for definitive management. Hydrometrocolpos, a condition characterized by retained fluid causing a distended vagina and uterus in the setting of a distal vaginal outflow obstruction, has a wide range of presentation severity based on the type of obstruction. Whether hydrometrocolpos is due to an isolated condition like imperforate hymen, a complex abnormality like cloacal malformation, or a part of a large congenital syndrome, the mainstay of treatment is decompression of the dilated vagina and surgical correction of the outflow obstruction. Imaging-based diagnostic algorithms and new treatment techniques reported in the literature, as well as longitudinal and patient-reported outcome research, can improve the lives of children affected by this condition.

Microablative fractional radiofrequency for sexual dysfunction and vaginal Trophism: A randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate Microablative Fractional Radiofrequency (MAFRF) as a possible option in treating vaginal atrophy. METHODS: This was a randomized, controlled clinical trial with postmenopausal women diagnosed with vaginal atrophy. The treatment consisted of three sessions of MAFRF, compared to vaginal estrogen administration and an untreated control group. Assessments occurred at baseline and 90 days. The primary endpoints were sexual function, evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and vaginal health, assessed by the Vaginal Health Index (VHI). Secondary outcomes included vaginal microbiota composition (Nugent score) and epithelial cell maturation (Maturation Value ‒ MV). RESULTS: One hundred and twenty women (40 in each group) were included. Concerning the FSFI, both groups, MAFRF (median 4.8 [3.6‒6.0]) and vaginal estrogen (mean 4.7 ± 1.1), experienced improved sexual desire when compared to the control group (median 3.6 [2.4‒4.8]). Regarding the total score of VHI, the authors observed an improvement in the mean of the MAFRF (23.7 ± 2.0) and vaginal estrogen groups (23.5 ± 1.9) when compared to the control (14.8 ± 2.9). The Nugent score was reduced in the MAFRF and estrogen groups (p < 0.01) compared to the control group. Lastly, the MV was modified after treatment with MAFRF (p < 0.01) and vaginal estrogen (p < 0.001). No differences existed between the MAFRF and vaginal estrogen groups in the studied variables. No adverse effects were reported following the MAFRF protocol. CONCLUSIONS: Radiofrequency was comparable in efficacy to estrogen administration for treating vulvovaginal atrophy. It deserves consideration as a viable option in managing this condition.

Postoperative Bleeding Two Weeks After Longitudinal Vaginal Septum Resection with the LigaSure Device: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND: A longitudinal vaginal septum (LVS) is a rare congenital anomaly often identified during adolescence. Surgical removal is a mainstay in treatment of symptomatic cases; however, there is variation in the techniques used. Little is known about the risk for postoperative complications associated with novel methods. CASES: We present the cases of 2 adolescent females, ages 15 and 22, diagnosed with an LVS who elected to undergo surgical removal. A LigaSure device was used for resection, and both individuals experienced significant postoperative bleeding almost 2 weeks following resection. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS: This report outlines two occurrences of postoperative bleeding after LVS resection, which may suggest inadequate surgical site hemostasis with use of the LigaSure apparatus. Further research on outcomes related to this technique is needed.

Malformaciones müllerianas: actualización y revisión a propósito de casos clínicos, 2022 / Müllerian malformations: update and review of clinical cases, 2022

Las malformaciones müllerianas (MM) son un grupo de anomalías estructurales originadas por fallas de desarrollo de los conductos paramesonéfricos o de Müller durante las primeras 16 semanas de gestación. Un oportuno diagnóstico y una correcta clasificación permiten ofrecer el mejor manejo y diferenciar aquellas pacientes que requieren tratamiento quirúrgico. Se realizó una revisión de la literatura sobre MM en las bases de datos Epistemonikos, SciELO, Cochrane y PubMed. Se rescataron todas las pacientes ingresadas con diagnóstico de MM. En el año 2021, la American Society of Reproductive Medicine publicó un consenso en el que se estandarizó la nomenclatura, se amplió el espectro y se simplificó la clasificación. La clínica es variada, e incluye pacientes asintomáticas cuyo diagnóstico es un hallazgo por imágenes. Los mejores estudios imagenológicos son la resonancia magnética (RM) y la ultrasonografía 3D, dejando la histeroscopia y la laparoscopia (método de referencia) como procedimiento diagnóstico-terapéutico. Se presentan casos clínicos desarrollados durante el primer trimestre de 2022. Recomendamos la utilización sistemática de la RM para el diagnóstico de anomalías complejas u obstructivas del aparato genital. El tratamiento de estas patologías debe ser realizado por ginecólogos endoscopistas expertos, e incluye tratamiento médico y quirúrgico, el cual debe ser enfocado en cada paciente dependiendo del tipo de MM y de los deseos de fertilidad.

Müllerian malformations (MM) are a group of structural anomalies caused by developmental failure of the paramesonephric or Müllerian ducts during the first 16 weeks of gestation. Timely diagnosis and classification allow us to offer the best management and to differentiate those patients who require surgical treatment. Literature review on MM in Epistemonikos, SciELO, Cochrane and PubMed databases. All patients admitted with a diagnosis of MM were rescued. In 2021, the American Society of Reproductive Medicine publishes a consensus where it standardizes the nomenclature, broadens the spectrum, and simplifies the classification. The clinical picture is varied and includes asymptomatic patients whose diagnosis is an imaging finding. The best imaging studies are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 3D ultrasonography, leaving hysteroscopy and laparoscopy (gold standard) as diagnostic therapeutic. Clinical cases developed during the first trimester 2022 are presented. We recommend the routine use of MRI for the diagnosis of complex and/or obstructive anomalies of the genital tract. The treatment of these pathologies should be performed by expert endoscopic gynecologists and include medical and surgical treatment, which should be focused on each patient, depending on the type of MM and fertility desires.

Vaginal laser therapy for GSM/VVA: where we stand now - a review by the EUGA Working Group on Laser.

Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) is a chronic progressive condition that involves the genital and lower urinary tracts, related to the decrease of serum estrogenic levels when menopause occurs. The definition of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a medically more accurate, all-encompassing and publicly acceptable term than VVA. Due to the chronic progressive trend of GSM, symptoms tend to reappear after the cessation of therapy, and frequently long-term treatment is required. First-line therapies include vulvar and vaginal lubricant or moisturizers, and, in the case of failure, low-dose vaginal estrogens are the preferred pharmacological therapy. Populations of patients, such as breast cancer (BC) survivors, are affected by iatrogenic GSM symptoms with concerns about the use of hormonal therapies. The non-ablative erbium:YAG laser and the fractional microablative CO2 vaginal laser are the two main lasers evaluated for GSM treatment. The aim of this comprehensive review is to report the efficacy and safety of Er:YAG and CO2 vaginal lasers for GSM treatment. Vaginal laser therapy has been demonstrated to be effective in restoring vaginal health, improving VVA symptoms and sexual function. The data suggest that both Er:YAG and CO2 vaginal lasers are safe energy-based therapeutic options for management of VVA and/or GSM symptoms in postmenopausal women and BC survivors.

Superficial dyspareunia treatment with hyperstacking of erbium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet SMOOTH laser: a short-term, pilot study in breast cancer survivors.

OBJECTIVE: This prospective pilot study aimed to evaluate the effects of a modified vaginal erbium laser (VEL) protocol, using the hyperstack mode on the vaginal vestibulum and introitus to treat superficial dyspareunia in postmenopausal breast cancer survivors suffering from the genitourinary syndrome of menopause. METHODS: In this pilot, prospective, randomized study, two groups of postmenopausal women suffering from superficial dyspareunia were included: 34 women (VEL group) were treated with erbium laser crystal yttrium-aluminum-garnet (XS Fotona SMOOTH; Fotona, Ljubljana, Slovenia) with a wavelength of 2,940 nm; for the other 34 (hyperstack group), a modified second step of the VEL protocol for the treatment of vestibulum and introitus was used, with hyperstacked (repeating a number of) subablative, long pulses with very low fluences. For each group, three laser applications at 30-day intervals were performed. Symptoms were assessed before, after each application, and after 1 and 3 months from the last laser application, using the visual analog scale score for superficial dyspareunia. RESULTS: Superficial dyspareunia improved in both groups over time (P < 0.001), regardless of age and years since menopause status. The reduction in visual analog scale score after the third laser application was 58% in VEL versus 73.5% in hyperstack. The hyperstack group, since the first laser application, showed a greater (P < 0.001) and persistent improvement of superficial dyspareunia. CONCLUSIONS: The hyperstack treatment of the introitus and vestibulum in breast cancer survivors leads to a more significant improvement in superficial dyspareunia than the VEL alone.

Long-Term Follow-Up after Laparoscopic Uterovestibular Anastomosis in Patients with Cervical Atresia and Complete Absence of the Vagina.

BACKGROUND: The surgical treatment of girls with cervical atresia and complete absence of the vagina remains a problem because of the rarity of cases and the controversial study results. OBJECTIVE: To describe the surgical technique and long-term results of laparoscopically assisted uterovestibular anastomosis in patients with cervical atresia and complete absence of the vagina STUDY DESIGN: Sixteen consecutive patients with cervical atresia and complete absence of the vagina were conservatively treated with laparoscopically assisted uterovestibular anastomosis in 2 tertiary care referral centers. The follow-up assessments included clinical examination, determination of the presence and quality of sexual intercourse, and vaginoscopy. RESULTS: All patients underwent laparoscopically assisted uterovestibular anastomosis. No perioperative complications occurred. The mean follow-up period was 8 ± 3.2 years. In all patients, the length of the neovagina was greater than 4 cm at 1 year after the surgery and approximately 6 cm after 2 years. After the start of sexual intercourse, the neovagina exceeded 7 cm in length in 2 of the 11 sexually active patients. At 12 months after the surgery, iodine-positive epithelium was present in all patients and was maintained over time. The continuity of the neovagina, neocervix, and uterine body was maintained without further interventions in 15 of the 16 patients. During the follow-up, 11 patients were sexually active, 5 were married, 4 were seeking conception, and 2 had spontaneous pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopically assisted uterovestibular anastomosis seems to be a safe and effective treatment for patients with cervical atresia and complete absence of the vagina, at least in terms of the recovery of menstrual function and sexual activity.

Laser versus sham for genitourinary syndrome of menopause: A randomised controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether CO2 laser treatment is more effective than sham application in relieving the most bothersome symptom (MBS) in women with genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). DESIGN: Single-centre, sham-controlled, double-blind, randomised trial. SETTING: A tertiary centre in Belgium. POPULATION: Sixty women with moderate to severe GSM symptoms. METHODS: All participants eventually received three consecutive laser and three consecutive sham applications, either first laser followed by sham, or conversely. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcome was the participant-reported change in severity of the MBS at 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included subjective (patient satisfaction, sexual function, urinary function) and objective (pH, Vaginal Health Index Score, in vivo microscopy) measurements assessing the short-term effect and the longevity of treatment effects at 18 months after start of the therapy. Adverse events were reported at every visit. RESULTS: The MBS severity score decreased from 2.86 ± 0.35 to 2.17 ± 0.93 (-23.60%; 95% CI -36.10% to -11.10%) in women treated with laser compared with 2.90 ± 0.31 to 2.52 ± 0.78 (-13.20%; 95% CI -22.70% to -3.73%) in those receiving sham applications (p = 0.13). There were no serious adverse events reported up to 18 months. CONCLUSIONS: In women with GSM, the treatment response 12 weeks after laser application was comparable to that of sham applications. There were no obvious differences for secondary outcomes and no serious adverse events were reported.

Evisceración vaginal espontánea en paciente con antecedente de histerectomía: reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura / Spontaneous vaginal evisceration in woman with prior pelvic surgery: case report and literature review

Reportar un caso de evisceración vaginal espontánea en paciente con antecedentes quirúrgicos de histerectomía vaginal y hacer una revisión de la literatura sobre los principales factores de riesgo asociados a la presentación de este evento. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 74 años multípara de 12 partos vaginales con antecedente ginecológico de histerectomía vaginal en 2012, en el año 2014 una sacroespinocolpopexia con colocación de cinta transobturadora más colporrafia anterior, en 2018 presenta cuadro con asas intestinales protruyendo con signos de isquemia a través de defecto en cúpula vaginal, se realiza resección de intestino delgado y anastomosis termino-terminal, con posterior cierre de defecto por vía abdominal. Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos PubMed, Scielo, Google Scholar y Science Direct para artículos publicados en inglés y español, de los últimos 22 años. Se identificaron 16 títulos que cumplieron con los criterios de selección, los resultados de la revisión muestran factores de riesgo comunes. La evisceración vaginal por dehiscencia de la cúpula vaginal es una patología poco prevalente, el abordaje mínimamente invasivo, que ha aumentado en los últimos años, ha conllevado un aumento de la incidencia, siendo la histerectomía por laparoscopia el de mayor riesgo.

To report a case of spontaneous vaginal evisceration in a patient with a surgical history of vaginal hysterectomy, and to review the literature on the main risk factors associated with the presentation of this event. We present the case of a 74-year-old multiparous patient with 12 vaginal deliveries with a gynecological history of vaginal hysterectomy in 2012, in 2014 a sacrospinocolpopexy with placement of transobturator tape plus anterior colporrhaphy, in 2018 she presented with intestinal loops protruding with signs of ischemia through a defect in the vaginal vault, resection of the small intestine and end-to-end anastomosis were performed, with subsequent closure of the defect through the abdomen. A search was made in the PubMed, Scielo, Google Scholar and Science Direct databases for articles published in English and Spanish, from the last 22 years. 16 titles that met the selection criteria were identified; the results of the review show common risk factors. Vaginal evisceration due to dehiscence of the vaginal vault is a rare pathology, the minimally invasive approach, which has increased in recent years, has led to an increase in incidence, with laparoscopic hysterectomy being of greater risk.

Laser treatment for genitourinary syndrome of menopause: Scientific Impact Paper No. 72 (July 2022): Scientific Impact Paper No. 72 (July 2022).

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is the term used to describe the group of symptoms including vaginal pain, vaginal dryness, itching, pain during sexual intercourse and fragile vaginal tissues as well as urinary symptoms including urinary frequency, urgency, incontinence, blood in the urine (haematuria) and recurrent urinary tract infections that occur due to a lack of the hormone estrogen. These symptoms can have a significant negative impact on psychosexual issues, sexual function and quality of life in postmenopausal women. Traditionally women have been treated with vaginal lubricants, vaginal moisturisers or low-dose vaginal estrogens. Lasers have been used in the cosmetic industry for collagen remodelling and repair of the skin. Therefore, it has been suggested that laser therapy may be used on the vagina as an alternative treatment for GSM. A review of all the published studies assessing the safety and efficacy of laser therapy for GSM have shown promising beneficial results. The majority of studies to date have been small, short-term, observational studies. However, there are randomised controlled trials underway. Laser treatment may be beneficial for the symptoms of GSM but until more robust evidence is available it should not be adopted into widespread practice, and should be used as part of a research study only.

Vaginal laser therapy for gynecologic conditions: re-examining the controversy and where do we go from here.

Despite significant controversy, vaginal laser therapy continues to be used for treatment of many gynecologic and pelvic conditions including vaginal atrophy, vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, urinary incontinence and pelvic pain. This commentary reviews the controversy surrounding vaginal laser therapy and summarizes the important distinction between ablative and non-ablative vaginal lasers. While much research is still needed, the article describes what is important for healthcare professionals to know before making the decision to integrate this technology into their clinical practice.

When prolapse cannot be reduced: incarcerated procidentia due to pelvic mass.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Our objective is to demonstrate a surgical approach to the treatment of incarcerated procidentia with obstructed ureters due to a pelvic mass. METHODS: A 61-year-old woman presented with constipation, vaginal swelling, and difficulty voiding. On examination she had complete procidentia, which could not be reduced with gentle pressure. On imaging the prolapse appeared to contain a large pelvic mass measuring 11.5 cm in its greatest diameter, with features consistent with a mature teratoma. She was also noted to have bilateral ureteral obstruction and prominent hydronephrosis. After unsuccessful prolapse reduction under anesthesia, Bovie electrocautery was used to perform a posterior colpotomy. The obstructing mass was dissected away from the uterus and its connecting pedicle transected. The prolapse could then be reduced and a robotic hysterectomy performed. RESULTS: Pathology showed multiple pelvic masses including an 8-cm necrotic cystic nodule most consistent with uterine fibroids and a 4.5-cm mature cystic teratoma with associated seromucinous cystadenoma of the left ovary. Bilateral nephrostomy tubes were placed postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Incarcerated procidentia is an uncommon occurrence, which in rare cases may be due to a pelvic mass. Surgical management may be required with colpotomy for removal of the pelvic mass in order to reduce the prolapse and resolve the case.

Vaginal collagen I and III changes after carbon dioxide laser application in postmenopausal women with the genitourinary syndrome: a pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical response and collagen remodeling in the vaginal wall after three sessions of carbon dioxide (CO2) laser application. METHODS: Fourteen postmenopausal women with vulvovaginal atrophy, aged 45-65 years and sexually active, were evaluated with clinical questionnaires, gynecological examinations and histological techniques before and after 20 weeks of treatment (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03939078). Treatment consisted of 3-monthly sessions of the CO2 laser. Clinical questionnaires included the Vaginal Health Index, the Female Sexual Function Index and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaires Short Form. Biopsies were taken from the lateral vaginal wall at week 0 (left wall) and week 20 (right wall). Tissue samples were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Periodic Acid-Schiff, Picrosirius Red Stain and Orcein dyes. Immunohistochemical study was used to quantify collagens I and III in the samples. RESULTS: The mean age was 54.4 ± 4.5 years, and the average time of amenorrhea was 7.6 ± 5.1 years. The Female Sexual Function Index and the Vaginal Health Index Score values increased while the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form score decreased after the programmed treatment. There was no significant change in vaginal pH. Histological studies showed increases in the total and superficial epithelial cell layers, and type III collagen fibers (from 10.86 ± 7.66 to 16.87 ± 3.96, p < 0.05), and immunohistochemical studies confirmed the significant increase in collagen III. CONCLUSION: Histological findings revealed epithelial atrophy reversal and collagen remodeling of the vaginal wall. Immunohistochemical analysis showed an increase in collagen type III fibers.

Efficacy of CO2 laser treatment in postmenopausal women with vulvovaginal atrophy: A meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the efficacy of CO2  laser treatment in postmenopausal women with vulvovaginal atrophy. METHOD: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science were searched to June 9, 2020. Prospective studies on the efficacy of CO2  laser treatment were included. Two researchers independently reviewed articles and extracted data. Heterogeneity test was conducted for each outcome indicator. Sensitivity analysis was performed in all models. RESULTS: Twelve articles including 459 participants were enrolled. Compared with baseline, vaginal health indeices (VHIs) were significantly higher at the 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow ups (P < 0.001). For VVA severity, the visual analog scale scores for vaginal dryness at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups (P < 0.050), vaginal burning, itching, and dysuria at 1-month follow up (P < 0.001), and dyspareunia at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups (P < 0.001) were all significantly lower. For FSFI, total scores at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow ups (P < 0.001), and the scores in desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain at 1-month follow up (P < 0.050) were all significantly higher. For quality of life, the PCS12 and MCS12 scores were all significantly higher (P < 0.050) at the 1-month follow up. CONCLUSION: CO2  laser treatment may be effective for postmenopausal women with VVA symptoms in improving quality of life and sexual function.

Postcoital Vaginal Perforation and Evisceration in Women with No Prior Pelvic Surgery: Laparoscopic Management and Systematic Review of the Literature.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate risk factors, causes, management and surgical therapy of postcoital vaginal perforation and evisceration in women with no prior pelvic surgery. DATA SOURCES: We used MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Embase and Web of Science for our research. Our review includes all reports from 1980 to November 2020. The research strategy adopted included different combinations of the following terms: (intercourse) AND (coitus) AND (vaginal perforation). METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION: we report a case of vaginal evisceration after consensual intercourse in a young and healthy woman. In addition, we performed a systematic review of vaginal perforations with or without evisceration in women without prior surgery or any other predisposing disease. All studies identified were listed by citation, title, authors and abstract. Duplicates were identified by an independent manual screening, performed by one researcher and then removed. For the eligibility process, two authors independently screened the title and abstracts of all non-duplicated papers and excluded those not pertinent to the topic. TABULATION, INTEGRATION AND RESULTS: We have followed the PRISMA guidelines. Five manuscripts were detected through the references of the works that had been identified with the research on MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Embase and Web of Science. We found 16 cases between 1980 and 2020. The young age and the virginal status represent the principal risk factors and all the lacerations occurred in the posterior vaginal fornix. The most common surgical technique was the laparotomic approach and, in the remaining cases, the laparoscopic and vaginal route was performed. CONCLUSIONS: Post-coital vaginal perforation and evisceration in women with no prior pelvic surgery is a rare condition in the clinical practice and, when it is associated with evisceration it is a surgical emergency. Usually, these injuries are not life-threatening conditions but, a delay in diagnosis, can lead to severe complications. In consideration of the high heterogeneity of the data in the literature, it is essential to define a diagnostic-therapeutic management for the patients with vaginal perforation. With our review, we try to identify the associated risk factors, the best and fastest diagnosis, and the best surgical approach. We believe that a combined vaginal and laparoscopic approach can be the best surgical treatment, useful to diagnose injuries of the abdominal organs and to improve postoperative outcome.

Atypical vaginal location of endometriosis following repeated urogynaecological surgery.

We outline a case of vaginal endometriosis in scar tissue located in the distal part of the anterior vaginal wall close to the urethra following repeated urogynaecological surgery. Our case presents a 45-year-old woman diagnosed with pelvic endometriosis in her youth. She underwent several vaginal surgeries due to pelvic organ prolapse, symptoms of stress incontinence and decreased urinary flow. One year after her most recent vaginal surgery, she developed a tender lump in the lower part of the anterior vaginal wall. A urethral diverticulum was suspected, but a diagnostic puncture and biopsy unexpectedly showed histologically verified endometriosis. As the cyst recurred, surgical excision of all visible endometriosis tissue was performed. After 3 years of follow-up, the patient remained without recurrence. This case illustrates the risk of atypical implantation of endometriosis related to repeated urogynaecological surgery and that treatment requires surgery with thorough removal of all visible tissues.