Patient-Reported Outcomes and Sexual Function in Vaginal Reconstruction A 17-Year Review, Survey, and Review of the Literature

There are multiple techniques used to reconstruct the vagina after oncologic extirpation. However, the long-term functional results of vaginal reconstruction are not well appreciated. A review was conducted of all 27 consecutive patients undergoing vaginal reconstruction from 1990 to 2007. A modified Sexual Adjustment Questionnaire was mailed to patients. Also, a review of all published studies of myocutaneous vaginal reconstructions with postoperative sexual function was performed. Patients underwent vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (18), gracilis (4), pudendal artery fasciocutaneous flaps (3), or rectus and peritoneum flaps (2). Of 27 patients, 14 (52%) had postoperative complications. Of 12 patients, 6 ( 50%) reported sexual function. This compares with an overall 52.3% return to sexual function reported in 8 studies of myocutaneous vaginal reconstruction. Vaginal reconstruction yielding sexual function remains a challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. Preoperative education of the patient about sexual function is of paramount importance.