Vulvectomy is a medical term that refers to the surgical removal of the vulva. The word is spelled as "vuhl-VEK-tuh-mee" in IPA phonetic transcription, which helps to explain its pronunciation. The stress is on the second syllable, and the "v" is pronounced as in "very". The "ul" combination is pronounced as in "full". The "e" at the end is a schwa sound like in "butter". Understanding the phonetic transcription of complicated medical terms can be helpful for doctors and patients alike.
A vulvectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove part or all of the vulva, which is the external female genitalia. This surgery may be carried out for various reasons, including the treatment of vulvar cancer or pre-cancerous conditions.
During a vulvectomy, the surgeon makes incisions to excise the affected areas of the vulva, which can include the labia majora and minora, clitoral hood, or the entire vulva. The extent of the surgery depends on the severity and extent of the disease. In some cases, adjacent lymph nodes may also be removed to assess the extent of cancer spread.
Vulvectomy can be performed using different techniques, such as radical, partial, or simple depending on the extent of tissue removal. Reconstruction or cosmetic surgery may be necessary after a vulvectomy to restore the appearance and function of the vulva.
This procedure is generally performed under general anesthesia, and patients may require a hospital stay for proper post-operative care and monitoring. Recovery time varies depending on the extent of surgery and individual factors, but patients can experience pain, swelling, and discomfort in the immediate post-operative period.
It is crucial for patients to receive adequate follow-up care, including regular check-ups, to ensure proper healing and monitor for any signs of recurrence or complications. Patients may also need psychological support following a vulvectomy due to the potential impact on body image and sexual functioning.
The word "vulvectomy" is derived from two roots.
The first part, "vulvo-" is derived from the Latin term "vulva", which refers to the external genitalia of the female reproductive system. The term "vulva" itself comes from the Latin word "volva", meaning 'wrapper' or 'covering.'
The second part of the word, "-ectomy", is a combining form derived from the Greek "ektomḗ", which means 'a cutting out' or 'excision.'
By combining these two roots, "vulvectomy" literally translates to the excision or removal of the vulva, which is a surgical procedure involving the removal of part or all of the external female genitalia.