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Annals of Surgical Oncology
Published in: Annals of Surgical Oncology 12/2012

01-11-2012 | Reconstructive Oncology

Vaginal Reconstruction Following Radical Surgery for Colorectal Malignancies: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Authors: Adrian McArdle, MB, BCh, MRCSI, Danielle A. Bischof, MD, FRCSC, Kristen Davidge, MD, Carol J. Swallow, MD, PhD, FRCSC, FACS, Desmond C. Winter, MD, FRCSI

Published in: Annals of Surgical Oncology | Issue 12/2012

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Abstract

Introduction

Vaginectomy is frequently indicated to ensure an adequate resection in rectal cancer. This paper reviews the success, complications, and functional results after various methods of vaginal reconstruction following resection for rectal tumors.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was performed by using the MEDLINE database, Embase, and the Cochrane library (1990–2010).

Results

Eighteen papers were available to review. Fifty percent of all women who received a neovagina following vaginectomy returned to sexual activity postoperatively. The rectus abdominis myocutaneous (RAM) flap remains the most common method of vaginal reconstruction after surgery for colorectal cancer. Advantages include low operative morbidity, a wide arc of rotation, and ease of harvest. Alternatives to flap reconstruction of the vagina have limited indications because of higher morbidity rates.

Conclusions

Preferred techniques for vaginal reconstruction following vaginectomy with colorectal cancer resection include RAM flaps for partial posterior vaginal defects and bilateral Gracilis myocutaneous flaps for complete vaginal excisions.
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Metadata
Title
Vaginal Reconstruction Following Radical Surgery for Colorectal Malignancies: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors
Adrian McArdle, MB, BCh, MRCSI
Danielle A. Bischof, MD, FRCSC
Kristen Davidge, MD
Carol J. Swallow, MD, PhD, FRCSC, FACS
Desmond C. Winter, MD, FRCSI
Publication date
01-11-2012
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Annals of Surgical Oncology / Issue 12/2012
Print ISSN: 1068-9265
Electronic ISSN: 1534-4681
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1245/s10434-012-2503-3

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