Surgical Removal of the Vulva: Objectives, Varieties, Processes, and Additional Details
A vulvectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of part or all of the vulva, which includes the labia minora, urethral meatus, labia majora, certain glands and ducts, clitoris, vestibule, introitus, and more [1]. This procedure is commonly performed to remove precancerous or cancerous cells, treat severe skin diseases like lichen sclerosus, or severe sweat gland diseases [2].
Before undergoing a vulvectomy, it is essential to discuss various aspects with your doctor, including necessary tests, medications, and preparation instructions [3]. After the surgery, patients may need to stay in the hospital for a few days to recover [4]. The recovery process typically involves several weeks of rest and wound care, often including hospital stays during the initial postoperative period [5].
During recovery, patients are closely monitored for signs of infection or complications and may have reconstructive procedures to restore vulvar function or appearance [5]. The use of advanced wound care products like hydrolyzed collagen powder has been found to be well-tolerated and may support healing [1][2].
The type of surgery a person needs depends on the severity of their cancer or other underlying health condition [6]. A vulvectomy may require the removal of lymph nodes in the groin [7]. Complications and risks of a vulvectomy include urinary tract infection, infection at the incision, swelling in the legs or groin, blood blister, excessive bleeding, scarring, issues with self-image, need for additional surgery, blood clots, incontinence, changes to sexual function and pleasure, and lymph fluid buildup if lymph nodes are removed [8].
To aid recovery at home, useful items include clean, soft towels, squirt bottles, sitz bath supplies, a hair dryer with a cool setting, cotton underwear, loose-fitting clothing, and a thermometer [9]. It is crucial to keep all follow-up appointments with your doctor and follow all home care advice [3]. If there are any signs of infection or any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor immediately [10].
Smoking and drinking should be stopped once a surgery date is known, as recommended by the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center [11]. In the first few days after surgery, a person may need to stay in bed and may require help with changing dressings [12].
The recovery period can take several weeks, and long-term outcomes depend on the severity of the disease treated and the success of surgical margins, but many patients can heal well with appropriate care and monitoring [5]. The outlook involves multidisciplinary follow-up to assess cancer control, functional status, and quality of life [2][5].
- The vulvectomy procedure is often performed to remove precancerous or cancerous cells, treat other women's health conditions like lichen sclerosus, or severe sweat gland diseases.
- The recovery process after a vulvectomy typically involves several weeks of rest, wound care, hospital stays, and monitoring for signs of infection or complications.
- The use of advanced wound care products, such as hydrolyzed collagen powder, has been found to be well-tolerated and may support healing during the recovery process.
- The type of surgery a person needs depends on the severity of their medical-condition, cancers like cervical, and other women's health issues, and may require the removal of lymph nodes in the groin.
