1 doctor in India — verified profiles, ratings, fees and clinic or online consultation.
MBBS, MS - General Surgery, DNB - Surgical Oncology
Surgical Oncologist
Dr. Akash Dhuru is a Surgical Oncologist in Mumbai and has an experience of 10 years. Dr. Akash Dhuru practices at S.L. Raheja Fortis Hospital in Mahim West,…
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Vulvectomy is a surgical procedure in which part or all of the vulva (the external female genital organs) is removed. It is most commonly performed to treat vulvar cancer or precancerous conditions affecting the vulva.
The vulva includes structures such as the labia (inner and outer lips), clitoris, and surrounding tissues. Depending on the severity and spread of disease, only a small portion or the entire vulva may be removed.
This procedure aims to remove abnormal or cancerous tissue while preserving as much normal function and appearance as possible. In some cases, reconstructive surgery may also be performed after removal.
● Removes cancerous or precancerous tissue
● Prevents spread of vulvar cancer
● Treats vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN)
● Relieves symptoms like pain, itching, or lesions
● Improves chances of recovery and survival
● May restore comfort and quality of life
● Patients diagnosed with vulvar cancer
● Individuals with precancerous vulvar conditions (VIN)
● People with persistent abnormal vulvar lesions
● Patients with recurrent vulvar disease
● Individuals with severe or unresponsive vulvar infections
1. Skinning Vulvectomy
Only the top layer of vulvar skin is removed, preserving deeper tissues.
2. Simple Vulvectomy
The entire vulva is removed without extensive surrounding tissue removal.
3. Modified Radical Vulvectomy
Removes most of the vulva along with some surrounding tissue and possibly nearby lymph nodes.
4. Radical Vulvectomy
Complete removal of the vulva along with deeper tissues and lymph nodes, usually in advanced cancer cases.
● Patient is given general anesthesia
● The surgical area is cleaned and prepared
● Surgeon makes an incision around the affected area
● Cancerous or abnormal tissue is removed
● Nearby lymph nodes may also be removed if needed
● Reconstruction may be performed if required
● Incisions are closed with stitches
The procedure can take from 30 minutes to a few hours depending on the type and complexity.
After surgery, patients may need to stay in the hospital for monitoring, especially in more extensive procedures.
Healing usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks, although recovery time may vary depending on the extent of surgery.
Patients are advised to keep the area clean and dry, wear loose clothing, and avoid strenuous activities. Proper wound care and follow-up visits are important for healing and monitoring recovery.
● Infection
● Bleeding
● Swelling in the groin or legs
● Scarring
● Urinary problems
● Blood clots
● Changes in sexual function or sensation
Although vulvectomy is a major surgery, it is often necessary for treating serious conditions like cancer.
Vulvectomy is typically recommended when abnormal tissue cannot be treated with less invasive methods like topical medications or minor surgery.
In early or less severe cases, doctors may use localized excision, laser therapy, or radiation. However, vulvectomy provides a more definitive treatment by removing affected tissue completely.
For advanced cases, vulvectomy may be combined with radiation or chemotherapy for better outcomes.
It is used to treat vulvar cancer or precancerous conditions by removing affected tissue.
The surgery is done under anesthesia, so there is no pain during the procedure. Some discomfort may occur during recovery.
It can take from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the type and complexity.
Usually one surgery is sufficient, though additional procedures may be needed in complex or recurrent cases.
Yes, it is generally safe when performed by experienced surgeons, though it carries risks like any major surgery.
The cancer may spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening, making timely treatment essential.
Most patients recover within 4 to 6 weeks, but full healing may take longer depending on the extent of surgery.
