MR imaging features of vaginal oblique septum syndrome

Objective: To explore the MRI imaging features and differential diagnosis of vaginal oblique septum syndrome (Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome). Methods: MRI images and clinical data of 14 patients with HerlynWerner-Wunderlich syndrome confirmed by hysteroscopy, laparoscopy and surgery were retrospectively analyzed. The imaging diagnosis and classification of vaginal oblique septum syndrome were conducted according to the classification of vaginal dysplasia of American Fertility Society (AFS). Results: Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome was diagnosed in all of the 14 cases, two of which were vaginal oblique diaphragmatic type II, and the others were all vaginal oblique diaphragmatic type I. All MRI findings showed abnormalities of both uterus and cervix, combined with kidney deficiency on the affected side, blood accumulation and dilatation of vagina on the interlinked cervix on the affected side, with high signal on T₁WI, and low or mixed signal on T₂WI. Conclusion: Vaginal oblique septum syndrome has certain characteristics on MRI. MRI can be used to accurately evaluate its type and related complications and make objective diagnosis, and can be the best and effective examination method for preoperative imaging evaluation. (authors)