Urethral Resection and Neo-Urethra in Invasive Vulvar Cancer

Abstract

Vulvar cancer is a significant gynecological malignancy. It often invades surrounding organs at the time of diagnosis. In cases of urethral invasion, lack of effective reconstruction may result in serious micturition disorders. We performed a urethral resection (surgical removal of part of the urethra) on a patient undergoing vulvar cancer surgery. Urethral invasion was detected during resection. We then created a distal neo-urethra (reconstructed lower urethra) using a vaginal flap (section of vaginal tissue reconstructed as the urethra). During the 1-year follow-up, we observed no complications. These included no urethral stenosis (narrowing), fistula formation (abnormal connection), atrophy (tissue wasting), dysuria (painful urination), or urinary disorders. When urethral invasion is found in vulvar cancer, a multidisciplinary approach is needed. Distal urethral resection and neo-urethral reconstruction are linked to good recovery and few complications.