Polypropylene mesh implantation in combination with vacuum-assisted closure in the management of metastatic or locally recurrent vulvar cancer: case report and review of literature

Int J Gynecol Cancer. 2010 Jan;20(1):179-83. doi: 10.1111/IGC.0b013e3181c13343.

Abstract

Background: Mesh reconstruction, especially in combination with vacuum-assisted closure, might improve healing and reduce the surgical morbidity of extensive inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy or extensive local resection in progressive cancer of the vulva.

Cases: Radical vulvectomy combined with inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy was performed in 2 patients (P1, P2). The inguinofemoral wound bed was stabilized by polypropylene mesh implantation and sealed with vacuum closure system. In 1 patient with local recurrence of vulvar cancer (P3), local excision and stabilization of the wound were performed by mesh implantation.

Conclusions: Mesh implantation fulfills 2 purposes: (1) it protects exposed vessels and the wound can be vacuum sealed; and (2) it stabilizes the surgical bed, permitting the required radical excision locally and inside the vascular compartment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Carcinoma / pathology
  • Carcinoma / surgery*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy / methods*
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / surgery*
  • Polypropylenes / therapeutic use*
  • Surgical Mesh*
  • Vulvar Neoplasms / pathology
  • Vulvar Neoplasms / surgery*

Substances

  • Polypropylenes