Subunit Principle of Vulvar Reconstruction: Algorithm and Outcomes

BACKGROUND: Vulvar defects result chiefly from oncologic resection of vulvar tumors. Reconstruction of vulvar defects restores form and function for the purpose of coitus, micturition, and defecation. Many surgical options exist for vulvar reconstruction. The purpose of this article is to present our experience with vulvar reconstruction. METHODS: From 2007 to 2013, 43 women presented to us with vulvar defects for reconstruction. Their mean age at the time of reconstruction was 61.1 years. The most common cause of vulvar defect was from resection of vulvar carcinoma and extramammary Paget's disease of the vulva. Method s of reconstruction ranged from primary closure to skin grafting to the use of pedicled flaps. RESULTS: The main complications were that of long term hypertrophic and/or unaesthetic scarring of the donor site in 4 patients. Twenty-two patients (51%) were able to resume sexual intercourse. There were no complications of flap loss, wound dehiscence, and urethral stenosis. CONCLUSIONS: We present a subunit algorithmic approach to vulvar reconstruction based on defect location within the vulva, dimension of the defect, and patient age and comorbidity. The gracilis and gluteal fold flaps are particularly versatile and aesthetically suited for reconstruction of a variety of vulvar defects. From an aesthetic viewpoint the gluteal fold flap was superior because of the well-concealed donor scar. We advocate the routine use of these 2 flaps for vulvar reconstruction.

Laparoscopic pelvic surgery for endometrial cancer

<p><b>INTRODUCTION</b>The traditional approach for the treatment of endometrial cancer by laparotomy is increasingly being replaced by laparoscopic surgery. The advantages of laparoscopy have been well-documented. Laparoscopy avoids the morbidity of a laparotomy, overcomes the limitations of vaginal hysterectomy, provides adequate pathological information for an accurate surgical staging and expedites the postoperative recovery of patients. This paper reports the outcome of a series of 50 consecutive cases of laparoscopic hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy for endometrial cancers that were performed by the author. The objective is to review the perioperative, postoperative experience and survival outcomes of patients with endometrial cancer managed by laparoscopic surgery performed by a single surgeon.</p><p><b>MATERIALS AND METHODS</b>The records of 50 consecutive patients with endometrial cancers from October 1995 to October 2007 treated by laparoscopic pelvic lymphadenectomy and laparoscopic hysterectomy (total and assisted) were retrospectively reviewed. Data on patients' attributes, endometrial cancers, surgical procedures, surgical complications and morbidity, perioperative experience, length of hospital stays and clinical outcome were analysed.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Laparoscopic surgery was successful in all 50 patients and is clearly an option for the treatment of early endometrial cancer.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Careful patient selection and surgical competency are instrumental in ensuring successful treatment.</p>