Our approach to labial fusion during childhood: Eight years of experience in a single center.

Abstract

Aim: In this study; we aimed to determine the clinical information and treatment results of labial fusion patients who applied directly to or consulted the Pediatric Surgery Outpatient Clinic of our hospital. Material and Method: Female patients in the prepubertal age group with labial fusion who applied to the Pediatric Surgery Outpatient Clinic of our hospital were retrospectively reviewed in terms of age, complaints, recommended treatment, recurrence rates, time to recurrence, and complications. Results: This study involved 438 patients with labial fusion aged between 32 days and 10 years in our hospital. Labial fusion was detected in 359 (82%) of the patients, a nearly complete opening only in the labia minora, and additional problems related to labial fusion in 180 (41%) patients. The patients were treated with topical estrogen and creams containing the raw material of the Centella Asiatica plant and manual fusion separation. Recurrence of labial fusion was seen in 18(4%) of these patients. It was found that the patient's age at the time of detection and additional problems related to labial fusion were effective on the recurrence of the disease. Conclusion: Older age and additional problems may increase the recurrence rate of labial fusion. We think that we can get results faster, with less risk of recurrence, by detecting the pathology early, applying the necessary precautions, and using the creams containing the raw material of Centella Asiatica as well as the raw material of the Centella Asiatica plant in combination, if necessary.