Quality of Life and Sexual Functioning After Vulvar Reconstruction With the Lotus Petal Flap

ObjectiveResection of (pre) malignant lesions in the vulvoperineal area may result in large defects that cannot be closed primarily. The lotus petal flap technique is widely used for reconstruction. The aim of this study was to evaluate both quality of life (QoL) and sexual functioning of patients who underwent the lotus petal flap procedure, because no data are available on this topic.MethodsA cross-sectional study was performed on all eligible patients (N = 38) who underwent the lotus petal flap procedure between 2005 and 2016. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire C30, Female Sexual Function Index, and Body Image Scale were used to evaluate QoL and sexual functioning. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 and Female Sexual Function Index scores were compared with scores of age-matched healthy women.ResultsTwenty-six patients (68%) responded. The mean (SD) age was 65.5 (16.3) years, and the median follow-up time was 38.5 months (range 16–141 months). Quality of life scores were lower compared with healthy women in the domains physical, role, and social functioning. Sexual activity rates were comparable with healthy women; however, sexual functioning was worse. Although patients were satisfied about their sexual life, pain was reported.ConclusionsPatients who underwent vulvar reconstructive surgery with lotus petal flaps seem to have a lower QoL compared with healthy women. Patients report more pain during sexual activity but are satisfied about their sexual functioning. These results should be included in preoperative counseling and follow-up of future patients eligible for vulvar reconstruction with a lotus petal flap.

A novel application of the lotus petal flap in high-risk perineal urethrostomy: principles and outcomes

Introduction: Perineal urethrostomy is a valuable technique in the management of complex anterior urethral strictures, as well as following penectomy or urethrectomy. Traditional techniques that employ perineal or scrotal skin flaps have documented failure rates of up to 30%. Current techniques for salvage have only modest success, leaving patients few options other than permanent suprapubic catheter or cystectomy and ileal conduit formation.Results: We present a new method of perineal urethrostomy using perforator-based lotus petal flaps in cases which were high risk or unsuitable for traditional perineal urethrostomy techniques, or where traditional strategies had failed. All patients demonstrated continent voiding at a minimum of 22 months follow-up, with patency confirmed by flexible cystoscopy. No complications were encountered.Conclusion: Utilisation of lotus petal flaps in high-risk cases of perineal urethrostomy will lead to significant improvements in patient outcomes. The availability of larger amounts of soft tissue coverage will obviate the need for compromise on either resection of involved urethra, or calibre and inset of urethrostomy. This will subsequently minimise the rates of failure, reduce the requirement for urinary diversion procedures and lead to improved quality of life.