Megan Wancura1, Jennifer M McCracken2, Emily Steen3, Elizabeth Cosgriff-Hernandez1, Sundeep Keswani3, Julie C-E Hakim2,3. 1. Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin. 2. Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 3. Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA.
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The current review highlights the complexity of the pediatric and adolescent gynecology subspecialty as well as the recent and exciting opportunities for innovation within the field. RECENT FINDINGS: The opportunities for concept, treatment, instrument, and knowledge-transfer innovation to better serve the specific needs of pediatric gynecology patients include novel approaches to neovagina creation using magnets, improving postoperative vaginal wound healing through newly designed and degradable vaginal stents, and complex Mullerian reconstructive surgical planning using virtual reality immersive experiential training. SUMMARY: There is a significant window of opportunity to address the needs of pediatric, adolescent and adult gynecological patients with new innovative concepts and tools.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The current review highlights the complexity of the pediatric and adolescent gynecology subspecialty as well as the recent and exciting opportunities for innovation within the field. RECENT FINDINGS: The opportunities for concept, treatment, instrument, and knowledge-transfer innovation to better serve the specific needs of pediatric gynecology patients include novel approaches to neovagina creation using magnets, improving postoperative vaginal wound healing through newly designed and degradable vaginal stents, and complex Mullerian reconstructive surgical planning using virtual reality immersive experiential training. SUMMARY: There is a significant window of opportunity to address the needs of pediatric, adolescent and adult gynecological patients with new innovative concepts and tools.