Vulvovaginal reconstruction for neoplastic disease

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Plastic Surgery
• Gynecology

Background:

• Current treatments for vulvar cancer prioritize disease control over restoring organ form and function.
• Significant sexual dysfunction and body image issues commonly arise post-surgery, impacting patients' quality of life.

Observation:

• A systematic literature review identified various surgical techniques for vulvovaginal reconstruction.
• Skin flaps (random, axial, fasciocutaneous, musculocutaneous, bowel) can restore vulvovaginal form and function with manageable morbidity.

Findings:

• Effective vulvovaginal reconstruction requires diverse techniques and specialist expertise, not standardized procedures.
• Reconstruction faces limitations, especially in achieving functional restoration of irradiated tissues.

Implications:

• Integrating reconstructive surgery into primary vulvar cancer treatment may enhance aesthetic and functional outcomes, improving quality of life.
• Physicians need awareness of current reconstructive techniques; further clinical trials are essential to evaluate impact on morbidity and quality of life.