Perineal cancer reconstruction
Plastic surgeons work closely with gynecologists to reconstruct large perineal deficits after excision of malignancies of the area. Tumors of the vulva and perineum demand extended excisions which include large tissue sections from the area, creating deficits challenging to reconstruct.
Combined approach to these particular problems from two surgical specialties offer the appropriate functional and aesthetic reconstruction. Sometimes an urologist may join the surgical team to ensure the integrity of urethra and urination. These procedures are performed under general anesthesia and both surgeons decide on the period of hospital stay.
Initially the gynecologist will excise the tumor and the plastic surgeon will take over. The extend of the deficit, the condition of surrounding tissues and the possibility of additional therapies will determine the reconstruction method. These methods may vary between a simple local flap transfer to a complicated and larger surgical flap transfer of muscles and subcutaneous tissue from a nearby or distal area of the body.
