Longitudinal vaginal septum: a retrospective study of 202 cases.

OBJECTIVE: To assess issues and management of longitudinal vaginal septum.

STUDY DESIGN: The charts of 202 patients referred for a longitudinal vaginal septum over a 24 year period were reviewed.

RESULTS: The most common septa were complete and high partial. Associated uterine malformations were frequent (87.8% of the cases), especially in complete or partial high septum (99.4%). The septum was asymptomatic in 56.4% of the cases. Obstetrical concerns are mainly related to a uterine malformation, but a thick septum may be responsible for dystocia.

CONCLUSION: Less than half of the vaginal septa are symptomatic enough to require surgical treatment. However, for obstetrical issues management should include a thorough evaluation of uterine anatomy and preventive section of the septum even when asymptomatic.