A vestibulectomy is a gynecological surgical procedure that can be used to treat vulvar pain, specifically in cases of provoked vestibulodynia. Vestibulodynia (vulvar vestibulitis) is a chronic pain syndrome that is a subtype of localized vulvodynia[1] where chronic pain and irritation is present in the vulval vestibule, which is near the entrance of the vagina.[2] Vestibulectomy may be partial or complete.[3]
Vulvar vestibulectomy is primarily supported as an intervention for people who suffer from provoked vestibulodynia, which causes sexual pain to women.[4] It is not indicated as appropriate for people living with generalized vulvar pain disorders and non-provoked vestibulodynia.[1]
Vestibulectomy is not considered a first-line treatment option for provoked vestibulodynia,[5] but it is considered an effective treatment for the long-run and has recorded high levels of satisfaction from the patients.[6] One review found that significant pain relief was reported by 79% of patients.[7]
^Lavy, Yuval; Lev-Sagie, Ahinoam; Hamani, Yaron; Zacut, David; Ben-Chetrit, Avraham (2005-05-01). "Modified vulvar vestibulectomy: simple and effective surgery for the treatment of vulvar vestibulitis". European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology. 120 (1): 91–95. doi:10.1016/j.ejogrb.2004.04.039. ISSN0301-2115. PMID15866093.