Vulvar cancer is a relatively uncommon type of gynecologic cancer that develops in the outer folds of the female genitalia. When detected early, vulvar cancer often responds very well to treatment, with surgery being the mainstay. A surgical oncologist in Kolkata may deploy several surgical approaches depending on variables like the tumor size, depth, and location. Below, we have outlined some of the basic surgical approaches to treat vulvar cancer.
Wide local excision:
Small, superficial lesions are usually treated with a wide local excision. The oncologist will surgically remove the tumor along with a surrounding margin of healthy tissue called the “wide local excision.” The excision breadth depends on how deep the cancer invaded into vulvar skin layers, but removing additional healthy tissue is imperative to ensure no cancerous cells are left behind.
Vulvectomy:
More extensive tumors may necessitate a partial or complete removal of the vulva, known as a vulvectomy. A skinning vulvectomy is a delicate procedure that removes only the top layer of vulvar skin containing the cancer. A simple vulvectomy entails removing the entire vulva, including the labia and clitoris. Sometimes, draining lymph nodes near the vulva will also be extracted to test for metastases.
Radical vulvectomy with lymph node dissection:
In advanced cases, a radical vulvectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection may be recommended by an oncologist in Kolkata. This is an extensive surgery that removes wide sections of the vulva, groin tissue, and lymph nodes in the pelvis. The goal is to eliminate all detectable traces of the cancer.
Reconstructive surgery:
Reconstructive plastic surgery can be done concurrently with vulvectomy to recreate the external genital anatomy. This reconstructive vulvoplasty is aimed at restoring appearance and function. Additional corrective procedures may be done later on as well.
Recovery time after vulvar cancer surgery often takes several weeks. Physical therapy helps strengthen the pelvic floor and groin muscles. Most patients are able to resume sexual intimacy after proper healing occurs. You should consult a surgical oncologist in Kolkata for a personalized treatment plan suitable to your case.
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