Anatomy of genital reaffirmation surgery (male‐to‐female): Vaginoplasty using penile skin graft with scrotal flaps. Issue 2 (28th December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Saylor, Leah; Bernard, Shenell; Vinaja, Xochitl; Loukas, Marios; Schober, Justine
• Is Part Of: Clinical anatomy. Volume 31:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 140
• Page End: 144
• Publication Date: 2017-12-28
• Subjects: neovagina -- penile skin graft -- scrotal flaps -- labia majora -- clitoris -- vulva; Anatomy -- Periodicals; Anatomy -- Periodicals; 611
• DOI: 10.1002/ca.23015
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0897-3806

Abstract

Abstract : 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.