Vulvectomy

Vulvectomy refers to a gynecological procedure in which the vulva is partly or completely removed. Usually this is performed as a last resort in certain cases of cancer, vulvar dysplasia or Human Papilloma Virus (genital warts). The patient experiences severe pain in the groin area for a couple of weeks after the procedure. Sexual function is generally still possible but limited.

A simple vulvectomy means removal of all external tissue, and a radical vulvectomy is the same but also includes lymph node removal. A partial vulvectomy is the least severe, only removing the affected portion of the vulva.