Megan Gauger, Rebecca Richardson, George Zacur, Monica Rosen, Katherine McCracken, Melina Dendrinos
Esophageal stents provide radial traction, prevent tissue ingrowth, and can remain in situ for weeks to months. They may help decrease stenosis and maintain patency in patients with vaginal anomalies.
BACKGROUND: Preventing vaginal stenosis is a challenge following excision of high transverse vaginal septa.
CASE: A 31-year-old nulligravid woman with a history of high transverse vaginal septum excision presented to pediatric and adolescent gynecology clinic. Re-excision followed by endoscopic placement of a flexible esophageal fully covered self-expandable metal stent (FCSEMS) was performed. Postoperative course was complicated by urinary symptoms, pain, and vaginal discharge. The stent was removed four weeks postoperatively in the office. Pelvic exam five months postoperatively demonstrated slight narrowing at the vaginal apex; however, the cervix remained visible and accessible. She was counseled to continue dilator therapy to maintain patency.
SIGNIFICANCE: Esophageal stents provide radial traction, prevent tissue ingrowth, and can remain in situ for weeks to months. They may help decrease stenosis and maintain patency in patients with vaginal anomalies.