Vaginectomy

Surgical procedure involving the removal of the vagina

Vaginectomy

Diagram of the female reproductive system, including the vagina.

A vaginectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of all or part of the vagina. It is typically performed as part of the treatment for certain medical conditions, such as vaginal cancer, or as part of gender-affirming surgery for transgender men.

Indications

Vaginectomy may be indicated for several reasons, including:

• Vaginal cancer: When cancerous cells are present in the vaginal tissue, a vaginectomy may be necessary to remove the affected area.
• Gender-affirming surgery: Transgender men may undergo vaginectomy as part of their transition process.
• Severe vaginal prolapse: In cases where other treatments have failed, a vaginectomy may be considered.

Types of Vaginectomy

There are different types of vaginectomy procedures, depending on the extent of tissue removal:

• Partial vaginectomy: Only a portion of the vaginal tissue is removed.
• Total vaginectomy: The entire vaginal canal is removed.
• Radical vaginectomy: This involves the removal of the vagina along with surrounding tissues, such as the lymph nodes, and is often performed in cases of cancer.

Surgical Procedure

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. The specific surgical approach depends on the type of vaginectomy being performed. In some cases, the surgery may be done through the abdomen, while in others, it may be performed through the perineum.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from a vaginectomy can vary depending on the extent of the surgery. Patients may experience discomfort, swelling, and a temporary loss of sensation in the area. Post-operative care includes pain management, monitoring for signs of infection, and follow-up visits with the healthcare provider.

Complications

As with any surgical procedure, vaginectomy carries potential risks and complications, such as:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Damage to surrounding organs
• Changes in sexual function

Related pages

• Vaginal cancer
• Gender-affirming surgery
• Vaginal prolapse