Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma for Clitoral Reconstruction: A Case Study

Emily Manin,Sarah Berndt,Gianmarco Taraschi,Begoña Martinez De Tejada,Jasmine Abdulcadir

doi:10.1007/s10508-021-02172-9

Abstract

Clitoral reconstruction after female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) is associated with significant post-operative pain and months-long recovery. Autologous platelet-rich plasma (A-PRP) reduces the time of healing and pain in orthopedic and burn patients and could also do so in clitoral reconstruction. In the present case, a 35-year-old Guinean woman who had undergone FGM/C Type IIb presented to our clinic for clitoral reconstruction. Her request was motivated by low sexual satisfaction and body image. We surgically reconstructed the clitoris using the Foldès method and applied plasma and glue of A-PRP. The patient was highly satisfied with the procedure. Two months post-operatively, her pain had ceased entirely and re-epithelialization was complete. We conclude that A-PRP may improve pain and healing after clitoral reconstruction. Extensive studies investigating long-term outcomes are needed.

Highlights

The World Health Organization (WHO, 2016) defines female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) as any procedure involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injuries to female genital organs for non-medical reasons
The present case study aims to improve post-clitoral reconstruction pain and expedite re-epithelialization without compromising clitoral sensitivity using autologous platelet-rich plasma (A-Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)) after clitoral reconstruction according to the Foldès technique, the most well-studied and reproducible clitoral reconstruction method
Many women consulting for clitoral reconstruction do not opt for the surgery after such pre-operative care as their body image, identity, and sexuality have significantly improved without clitoral reconstruction (Sharif Mohamed et al, 2020)

Summary

Introduction

The World Health Organization (WHO, 2016) defines FGM/C as any procedure involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injuries to female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The present case study aims to improve post-clitoral reconstruction pain and expedite re-epithelialization without compromising clitoral sensitivity using autologous platelet-rich plasma (A-PRP) after clitoral reconstruction according to the Foldès technique, the most well-studied and reproducible clitoral reconstruction method.

Results

Conclusion