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Semin Plast Surg 2011; 25(2): 121-129
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1281481
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Normal Vulvovaginal, Perineal, and Pelvic Anatomy with Reconstructive Considerations

Sujata Yavagal1 , Thais F. de Farias2 , Carlos A. Medina1 , Peter Takacs1
  • 1Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
  • 2Universidade Federal Da Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
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Publication History

Publication Date:
21 July 2011 (online)

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ABSTRACT

A thorough insight into the female genital anatomy is crucial for understanding and performing pelvic reconstructive procedures. The intimate relationship between the genitalia and the muscles, ligaments, and fascia that provide support is complex, but critical to restore during surgery for correction of prolapse or aesthetic reasons. The external female genitalia include the mons pubis, labia majora and minora, clitoris, vestibule with glands, perineal body, and the muscles and fascia surrounding these structures. Through the perineal membrane and the perineal body, these superficial vulvar structures are structurally related to the deep pelvic muscle levator ani with its fascia. The levator ani forms the pelvic floor with the coccygeus muscle and provides vital support to all the pelvic organs and stability to the perineum. The internal female genital organs include the vagina, cervix, uterus, tubes, and ovaries with their visceral fascia. The visceral fascia also called the endopelvic fascia, surrounds the pelvic organs and connects them to the pelvic walls. It is continuous with the paraurethral and paravaginal fascia, which is attached to the perineal membrane. Thus, the internal and external genitalia are closely related to the muscles and fascia, and work as one functioning unit.

KEYWORDS

Female external genitalia - endopelvic fascia - perineal membrane - levator ani - clitoris - labia majora - labia minora

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Peter TakacsM.D. Ph.D. 

Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (D-50), Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miller School of Medicine

University of Miami, P.O. Box 016960, Miami, FL 33010

Email: ptakacs@med.miami.edu

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