Impact of laparoscopy for diagnosis and treatment in patients with disorders of sex development

The role of ultrasound to evaluate the disorders of sex development: a pictorial essay

Ultrasonography is usually the first modality used to evaluate patients with disorders of sex development (DSD). To determine the sex in patients with DSD, the following four categories are carefully evaluated: chromosomal, gonadal, anatomical internal genitalia, and external genitalia. However, in the clinical setting, the only information that sonographers have prior to ultrasound examination is the appearance of the external genitalia. The following DSD presentations are commonly observed: (1) male external genitalia present at birth, without testis in the scrotum or with a small penis; (2) female external genitalia present at birth, with an inguinal hernia or clitoromegaly; (3) neonates with ambiguous genitalia at birth; and (4) female or male external genitalia without sexual maturity. In this retrospective study of several clinical cases, we demonstrated an ultrasound-based sex determination approach for these clinical presentations. We found that sonographers evaluated the external genitalia in relation to the distal urethra within the corpus spongiosum and corpus cavernosum and the presence or absence of follicles within the detected gonads to determine the sex of the patient.

Society for Endocrinology UK Guidance on the initial evaluation of a suspected difference or disorder of sex development (Revised 2021)

It is paramount that any child or adolescent with a suspected difference or disorder of sex development (DSD) is assessed by an experienced clinician with adequate knowledge about the range of conditions associated with DSD and is discussed with the regional DSD service. In most cases, the paediatric endocrinologist within this service acts as the first point of contact but involvement of the regional multidisciplinary service will also ensure prompt access to specialist psychology and nursing care. The underlying pathophysiology of DSD and the process of delineating this should be discussed with the parents and affected young person with all diagnostic tests undertaken in a timely fashion. Finally, for rare conditions such as these, it is imperative that clinical experience is shared through national and international clinical and research collaborations.

A novel approach in the intraoperative management of ovotesticular DSD

Ovotesticular disorder of sex development (OTD) management remains challenging. In OTD, cautious gonadal evaluation and separation of ovarian and testicular components might be required to avoid virilization of a patient with female identity. Herein we report our minimal invasive approach in this very rare condition. The gonads are externalized under laparoscopic control through trocar openings. Intraoperative ovotesticular ultrasonography (US) is used for clear identification of ovarian and testicular tissue which can then be safely separated. We strongly promote the use of a minimal invasive approach in the management of these patients undergoing long term treatment and often multiple procedures.

Laparoscopic approach for gonadectomy in pediatric patients with intersex disorders

The birth of a child with a disorder of sex development (DSD) prompts a long-term management strategy that involves a myriad of professionals working with the family. There has been progress in diagnosis, surgical techniques and in understanding psychosocial issues related to this condition. However, since these kinds of disorders are rare and have many anatomical variations, individual care is necessary, especially regarding surgical management. Gonadectomy is indicated in a number of intersex disorders with a Y chromosome to reduce the associated risk of cancer. Recently, laparoscopy has gained wide acceptance in pediatric urology. Laparoscopy is also reported to be a useful tool for diagnosing and treating DSD because of its minimal invasiveness and favorable cosmetic outcome. However, reports of evaluation and management using laparoscopy for large numbers of DSD patients are limited and debate is still open about indications and timing of gonadectomy. In this study, we reviewed the literature of the last 10 years about the role of laparoscopic gonadectomy in patients with DSD. In the analyzed papers, all the procedures were accomplished successfully using laparoscopy. No conversions to open surgery neither intra-operative complications were reported in all series. Post-operative complications were reported only in one series and included 1 umbilical port infection [2% (1/50)] and 1 pelvic abscess [2% (1/50)], both treated with antibiotic therapy (grade I Clavien-Dindo). Of the analyzed series, 7/10 reported postoperative diagnosis of gonadal tumors. The histopathologic examinations revealed 15 cases of gonadoblastoma, 7 cases of dysgerminoma and 2 cases of seminoma. Analyzing the single series, the incidence of these tumors varied between 10% and 33%. The results of our review confirmed the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic gonadectomy in DSD patients. In our mind, laparoscopic gonadectomy should be accepted as the treatment of choice in children and adolescents with these rare conditions. It thereby eliminates the risk of malignancies of gonadal origin with the advantages of a minimally invasive procedure, with lower morbidity, quicker postoperative recovery and excellent cosmetic results.

[Role of laparoscopy in the management of the abnormalities of sex differentiation: about 12 cases]

Disorders of sex differentiation cause a discrepancy between sex itself (phenotype) and genetic sex (genotype) which poses a problem in sex determination. In lower socioeconomic level countries where prenatal diagnosis is often absent and technical equipments are inadequate, medical and surgical management is difficult. The aim of this study is to clarify the role of laparoscopy in the management of sexual ambiguity through observation of 4 cases and review of the literature.

Vaginal Rejuvenation with Gore-Mycromesh

Recently, we introduced functional vaginal rejuvenation with elastic silicone threads. However, some patients with specific indications need other biocompatible materials for rejuvenation of the vagina. Gore-Mycromesh is one of the most commonly used materials in plastic and reconstructive surgical fields and it is composed of expanded poly-tetrafluroethylene. In this study, we introduced our clinical experience with static vaginal rejuvenation using Gore-Mycromesh to specifically assess the overall patient satisfaction (Female Sexual Function Index, FSFI). This study included 50 patients who underwent vaginal rejuvenation with a Gore-Mycromesh between 2010 and 2012. After marking two incisions at the inner side of the vaginal inlet and posterior wall, respectively, we performed submucosal dissection at the posterior vaginal wall and then grafted and secured a Gore-Mycromesh to the dissected area (muscle/fascia). Overall the FSFI improved as time progressed up to a year postoperatively. This is especially prominent in the FSFI satisfaction subscore. All but eight patients (42/50, 84 %) were "very satisfied (5)" or "satisfied (4)" with the outcomes after the vaginal rejuvenation. The overall complication rate was 8 %. Based on our clinical experience with the 50 cases, we think that vaginal rejuvenation with Gore-Mycromesh significantly improved postoperative outcomes, resulting in improved sexual function with a focus on improving the FSFI satisfaction subscore in mid-term follow-up. Elderly patients experience better outcomes using gore mycromesh rather than silicone thread because we can plicate the vaginal posterior wall with senile changes simultaneously using an open technique. However, further studies would be warranted for better positioning and adherence of grafted implants to surrounding tissue and for increasing the tightening effect of the implant and its sufficient longevity.

Multidisciplinary care for individuals with disorders of sex development

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Recommendations regarding the care of individuals with disorders of sex development include that care be provided by multidisciplinary teams. This article will discuss team composition and function as well as the role of the gynecologist and barriers to such care.

RECENT FINDINGS

Many barriers to multidisciplinary care exist, but recent reports stress the roles of different team members as well as tools for planning and implementation of such a team that may help to overcome such barriers. All current recommendations include the participation of a gynecologist in the disorders of sex development team. Gynecologists are in the unique position to continue to provide care as these individuals mature into adulthood.

SUMMARY

Multidisciplinary care for patients with disorders of sex development is recommended and gynecologists provide unique expertise.