Vulvar vestibulitis treated by modified vestibulectomy

Abstract

Objective: A prospective study to evaluate the success of a modified vestibulectomy in treating vulvar vestibulitis. Methods: Fifty seven consecutive women with vulvar vestibulitis and suitable for surgery based on the criteria: superficial dyspareunia, erythematous vestibular region, positive Q-tip test, symptoms reduced with local anesthetic cream. A modified vestibulectomy with or without a modified Fentons procedure was performed. Response was based on return to normal coitus, 3 months after surgery. Results: Most women suffered from chronic conditions (median duration of symptoms=18 months). The median age was 28 years (range 18–53). Any infections were treated prior to surgery. All but 4 (7%) had histological abnormalities, mainly non-specific inflammation. In 18% of women who had cervical cytology some abnormality was detected. Mean follow-up time was 12 months (range 2–42). Three women were not evaluable. Complete response to surgery was achieved in 33 (61.1%) of the women, partial response was achieved in 15 (27.8%). Six (11.1%) had persistent symptoms, four of whom has psychosexual problems. Conclusion: Presently, surgery remains the most successful intervention for vulvar vestibulitis. Modified surgery which is less destructive seems to afford acceptable results. The completion of randomized studies are needed to recognise the optimum surgical procedure.