The Use of the Malecot Catheter and Modified Stent Insertion in Transverse Vaginal Septum

Abstract

A transverse vaginal septum is a Mullerian duct anomaly that occurs when there is a congenital failure of the lower vaginal central cells to generate. Severe cyclical abdominal pain can occur shortly after menarche. The retrograde menstrual flow can cause peritoneal inflammation, adhesion, and even infertility. This case series aims to describe the use of a modified corrugated stent and malecot catheter which has shown favourable results in maintaining vaginal patency. The post-operative care is always a challenge. Re-stenosis was extremely common and poorly reported despite the greatest surgical procedures in transverse vaginal septum, especially in high septum or thick septum. The malekot catheter insertion not only serves as a guide for future septum excision, but it can also self-prepare the young child to conduct the dilation with continued counseling while the menses are still present. Despite the usual return of menstruation based on the malekot catheter, the emphasis on regular dilation remains crucial. According to specific institutional experiences in China, the catheter can be implanted for up to three years without showing signs of infection.