Vaginal aplasia: therapeutic options

Müllerian dysgenesis, a common developmental anomaly presenting as primary amenorrhea, is characterized by absence of the vagina and absence or rudimentary development of the uterus. Anatomic anomalies of the axial skeleton, inguinal canal, and kidney often accompany this psychologically devastating condition. Twenty-two cases are reviewed in regard to associated clinical features, principles of treatment, and adequacy of outcome. A good functional result can be achieved either by the use of a progressive nonsurgical self-dilatation technique, or by surgical cavitation with skin grafting, although histologic and steroid receptor properties of the latter are less physiologic than those of the former.