A Novel Technique Using Ultrasonic Shears Versus Traditional Methods in Labiaplasty: A Retrospective Case-Control Study

Abstract

<h3>Study Objective</h3> To compare the clinical outcomes of bilateral labia minora hypertrophy reduction using ultrasonic shears versus traditional methods. <h3>Design</h3> In this retrospective study, we evaluate the surgical outcomes of 11 women who underwent bilateral labia minora hypertrophy reduction using ultrasonic shears to 14 women who underwent the same procedure using various traditional methods between January 1, 2015, and February 29, 2020, in a single center. <h3>Setting</h3> Outpatient surgery at a single center. <h3>Patients or Participants</h3> Out of 25 patients, 11 underwent labiaplasty procedures using ultrasonic shears and 14 women who underwent the same procedure using various traditional methods. <h3>Interventions</h3> N/A. <h3>Measurements and Main Results</h3> The primary outcomes evaluated are total operative time, estimated blood loss (EBL), and post-operative pain. Secondary outcomes include post-operative complications and total admission time. The statistical analyses used were exact Wilconxon Rank and Fisher's exact test. The mean reduction operative time for the ultrasonic shears technique when compared with traditional methods was 43.25 minutes (22.82 minutes versus 66.07 minutes, p=.0002). A statistically significant but non-clinically significant difference in EBL was noted. No statistically significant differences existed with post-operative pain score, total admission time, or post-operative complications. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Ultrasonic shears significantly reduce the time needed for reduction of bilateral labia minora hypertrophy and therefore should be considered by surgeons as a useful tool in increasing the efficiency of this procedure.