Robotic-assisted neovaginal creation: stepwise approach to the Davydov technique in a patient with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome

Abstract

Objective: To demonstrate the robotic-assisted Davydov technique for neovaginal creation in Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome.

Design: Stepwise demonstration of the technique with narrated video.

Subjects: A 27-year-old patient has been diagnosed with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome since the age of 18 years. Three months ago, vaginal dilation was attempted at another medical center but was unsuccessful because of intolerance. Pelvic examination revealed a shallow vaginal dimple.

Exposure: After identification of the anatomical structures, the rectovaginal and vesicovaginal spaces were dissected, creating a space for the neovaginal canal and forming anterior and posterior peritoneal flaps. After complete dissection of the rectum from the posterior pelvic peritoneum, the vaginal remnant was bluntly dissected externally under guidance of a blunt-tipped curette handle and connected adequately to the introitus. Subsequently, the created anterior and posterior flaps were individually interrupted with sutures to form the neovaginal entrance. After the neovaginal entrance was established, the robot was used again to continuously suture the uterine remnants to create the anterior neovaginal wall. The uterine remnants, rectal serosa, and internal portions of the flaps were then joined together to form the neovaginal vault.

Main outcome measures: Demonstration of the steps for the robotic management of neovaginal creation in Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome.

Results: The patient was discharged on postoperative day 1 with a soft mold in the vagina. On postoperative day 3, the soft mold was replaced with a medium-sized rigid mold. By postoperative day 6, the patient could insert a full-size rigid mold. The patient achieved full penetration and engaged in sexual activity within 1 month, with no postoperative complications observed. At the 8-month follow-up, the neovaginal cavity measured 13.4 cm in depth and 4.7 cm in diameter.

Conclusion: Creating a neovagina using the robotic-assisted Davydov technique in patients with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome is a safe, feasible, beneficial, and highly effective method. Although the superiority of robotic systems over laparoscopy has not yet been fully established through extensive publications, the advantages provided by high-image quality, magnification, and maneuverability are highlighted in this study. Robotic technology could be particularly beneficial for patients with obesity or those with complex pelvic anatomy because of prior surgeries.