The VCUAM (Vagina Cervix Uterus Adnex-associated Malformation) classification: a new classification for genital malformations.

OBJECTIVE

With an incidence of up to 5% in the general population, genital malformations are a frequent clinical occurrence. However, using the existing published classifications of malformations, difficulties arise in classifying genital malformations appropriately. The aim of the present study was to produce a simple, systematic, and reproducible classification system.

DESIGN

A systematic arrangement of genital and associated malformaltions, using a structure similar to that in the TNM classification of oncological tumors, was developed and validated.

SETTING

Patients with genital malformations in a university hospital.

PATIENT(S): Ninty-nine premenopausal patients with genital malformations.

INTERVENTION(S): Patients were diagnosed for genital malformation using laparoscopy or magnetic resonance imaging.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): A new classification (VCUAM) is presented to evaluate patients with different genital malformations.

RESULT(S): The external and internal female genital organs were divided into the following subgroups in accordance with the anatomy: vagina (V), cervix (C), uterus (U), and adnexa (A). Associated malformations were assigned to a subgroup (M) relative to each specific organ. The classification was validated in a group of 99 patients with genital malformations.

CONCLUSION(S): The VCUAM classification for the first time makes it possible to reflect even complex malformations in a precise and individual fashion, taking associated malformations into account. The classification makes it easier to provide appropriate clinical care for the affected patients.