Vulvectomy

Why is this procedure done?

The outside of a womans genital organs is called the vulva. The vulva is made up of two inner lips and two outer lips. The lips are also called the labia minora and the labia majora. The clitoris is also a part of the vulva. ‚
Surgery to remove all or part of the vulva is called a vulvectomy. Vulvectomy is done to remove cancerous cells or other abnormal skin growths. With some surgeries, the doctor only removes part of the vulva. Other times, all of the vulva is removed. ‚
The type of surgery is based on the problem. Sometimes, skin grafts are used to replace the skin that was taken away. ‚

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What will the results be?

The doctor will be able to take away all of the cancer cells or other skin growths. ‚

What happens before the procedure?

Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about: ‚

All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor if you have any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some examples are Coumadin, ibuprofen, Aleve (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding.
If you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.

Your doctor will do an exam and may order: ‚

Lab tests
X-rays
MRI scan

You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home. ‚

What happens during the procedure?

Once you are in the operating room, the staff will put an IV in your arm to give you fluids and drugs. You will be given a drug to make you sleepy. The drug will also help you stay pain free during the surgery.
When you are asleep, the doctors put a tube in your mouth to help you breathe. Your doctor will put a tube in your bladder to drain urine.
Your doctor will shave your pubic area.
The doctor will remove the affected areas of your vulva.
Your doctor will repair your vulva. Your doctor will close your cut with stitches and cover the cut with special bandages.
Your doctor may put in short-term drains to help remove extra blood or fluids from the area.
The procedure takes 1 to 2 hours.

What happens after the procedure?

You will go to the Recovery Room for a few hours. Your doctor may give you drugs for pain.
When your doctor says you can eat, you will start by drinking clear fluids. Then, you can slowly start eating solid food.
The staff will help you begin to walk around. Coughing and deep breathing exercises will help keep your lungs clear.
Your doctor will remove IV lines, tubes, or drains before you go home.
You may go home the same day or you may stay in the hospital for a few days. Your length of stay is based on the kind of surgery you had.

What care is needed at home?

Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what you need to do.
Wear a sanitary pad if you have bleeding.
Walking can help improve blood flow, muscle strength, and bowel movements.
Talk to your doctor about how to care for your cut site. Ask your doctor about:
- When you should change your bandages.
- When you may take a bath or shower.
- If you need to be careful with lifting things over 10 pounds.
- When you may go back to your normal activities like work, driving, or sex.
Be sure to wash your hands before and after touching your wound or dressing.
Rinse your genital area with natural soap or warm water only. Wipe your genital area from front to back after every bowel movement or after passing urine.
Avoid soaps with scent. Do not take bubble baths. Do not use petroleum jelly, mineral oil, or other oils in your vaginal area.
Do not use perfumes or powders in your genital area.
Wear loose clothes and cotton underwear. Ask the doctor when you can start to wear pantyhose again.
You may need pain drugs for a few days.

What follow-up care is needed?

Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep your visits.
Talk to your doctor about feelings you may have about having sex.

What problems could happen?

Infection
Bleeding
Blood clots
Problems with sex
Cancer may come back
Decreased sensation in area of surgery
Pain
May feel depressed

Where can I learn more?

American Cancer Society ‚
http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/VulvarCancer/DetailedGuide/vulvar-cancer-treating-surgery ‚
MacMillan Cancer Support ‚
http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Cancerinformation/Cancertypes/Vulva/Livingwithvulvalcancer/Aftersurgery.aspx ‚

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚

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