A novel approach for resection of a vaginal septum

A new technique for the treatment of transverse vaginal septum by Foley catheter

We report a new surgical technique for the management of transverse vaginal septum in a 13-year-old girl who presented with abdominal pain. Imaging techniques yielded hematocolpos. The patient and her family refused vaginal surgery in order to preserve hymenal integrity for sociocultural beliefs. At laparotomy, a vertical incision was made on posterior vaginal wall. An artery forceps was introduced from the hymenal opening while preserving the hymenal integrity. The septum located on the upper third of vagina was perforated by the help of a forceps introduced from posterior vaginal wall via an abdominal route. A Foley catheter was introduced from the introitus toward the septal perforation and was held by the forceps. The balloon of the catheter was placed on the perforated septum and it was insufflated with 10 ml of fluid. The Foley catheter was in place for 2 weeks. After removal of the catheter, she received oral contraceptive pills for 3 months postoperatively. She had regular spontaneous menses on follow-up for 6 months duration.