The Dangers of Hymenotomy for Imperforate Hymen: A Case of Iatrogenic Pelvic Inflammatory Disease with Pyosalpinx.

BACKGROUND: Complications associated with imperforate hymen include cyclical abdominal pain, acute urinary retention, endometriosis, and even iatrogenic infections.

CASE: A 14-year-old young woman was diagnosed with an imperforate hymen, hematocolpos, and right hematosalpinx. A hymenotomy was performed, followed by a hymenectomy 3 days later. On postoperative day 7, she was admitted for pelvic inflammatory disease with a right pyosalpinx. The infection was refractory to intravenous gentamicin, ampicillin, and clindamycin so the patient underwent computed tomography-guided drainage of the pyosalpinx. Two days later, she was discharged home in good condition.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION: Small incisions and punctures into imperforate hymens without immediate definitive management should be avoided because inoculation of the newly introduced bacteria can ascend the gynecologic tract and lead to serious infections.