MRKH & Müllerian Anomalies
Deeply specialized, compassionate care drawing on techniques pioneered within Dr. Stepanian's own family of surgeons.
Dr. Assia Stepanian began her study of MRKH and other Müllerian anomalies in 1992. Her mother, Dr. Leila Adamyan, performed the first laparoscopic/laparovaginal formation of the neovagina using pelvic peritoneum and was invited to publish her work in Professor David Nichols' "Gynecologic and Obstetric Surgery." Co-authored by Dr. Stepanian, Professor Adamyan's classification of Müllerian Anomalies is based on the experience of treating over 3,700 patients — over 350 with pure MRKH syndrome and over 600 with various forms of vaginal agenesis.
While she offers non-surgical approaches and non-organ-involving surgery for creation of the neovagina, patients often choose laparoscopic peritoneal colpopoiesis (laparoscopic Davidov) for its ease and minimal invasivity. Benefits have been observed for nearly 30 years.
Benefits of Laparoscopic Neovaginal Creation Using Pelvic Peritoneum — Leila Adamyan Technique
- Immediate formation of the vagina of normal size
- Utilization of pelvic peritoneum (not skin or sigmoid colon)
- Avoids traction devices or therapeutic dilation
- Approximated fibrous streaks provide apical support
- Can be used in complex anomalies
- Can be used after previous attempts at colpopoiesis
- Minimal postoperative analgesia
- Minimal blood loss
Care built around you
At the first visit, Dr. Stepanian collects detailed history and symptoms and discusses immediate and long-term goals, since malformations are often diagnosed in adolescence or as a result of miscarriages or infertility. Care is highly individualized to each patient's goals.
Associated anomalies are seen in 74% of patients with Müllerian anomalies; associated conditions — most prevalently endometriosis — are seen in over 40% of patients with anomalies and over 80% of patients with obstructive anomalies.
Since 2005, Dr. Stepanian has been invited to speak and chair at international conferences, teaching doctors and patients alike. She is honored to bring her mother's techniques to the United States and add her own experience. She sees her U.S. patients at Academia in Atlanta, Georgia.
"Dr. S. has treated my daughter with more delicate and age-appropriate care than we had ever encountered… You will feel safe and well treated as a patient. More importantly, as a mother, you will feel secure bringing your daughter there."
— T.A.Begin a conversation about your care
Reach out to Academia to discuss your history, your goals, and the options that fit you best.