Vulvectomy

Vulvectomy refers to a gynecological procedure in which the vulva is partly or completely removed. The procedure is usually performed as a last resort in certain cases of cancer,vulvar dysplasia, vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia,human papillomavirus or female genital mutilation. Although there may be severe pain in the groin area after the procedure, for a number of weeks, sexual function is generally still possible but limited.

Types

A simple vulvectomy can be either complete (more than 80% of the vulvar area) or partial (less than 80% of vulvar area). It removes the skin and superficial subcutaneous tissues. a radical vulvectomy is the same with regard to complete or partial, however, includes removal of skin and deep subcutaneous tissue. An inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy may be performed along with a radical vulvectomy (whether partial or complete) on one or both sides if spread of a cancer is suspected.

A simple partial vulvectomy is the least severe, only removing the affected portion of the vulva.