The female genital system serves multiple functions, including reproductive and urinary functions.

Surgery is usually performed on the female genital system either for medical purposes such as to correct a disease or as cosmetic or reconstructive surgery. In recent years, contemporary surgical approaches have evolved, which have increased the success rate of the operation and reduced the recovery period. In this article, we will discuss contemporary surgical approaches to the female genital system.

Myomectomy

Myomectomy is a surgical procedure to remove uterine fibroids while leaving the uterus intact. Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that develop in the uterus, which can cause chronic pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, and infertility.

The traditional approach to myomectomy involved a large abdominal incision under general anesthesia. However, the contemporary approach involves a minimally invasive approach and can be performed under local or regional anesthesia.

Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the uterus. Hysterectomy can be performed for a number of medically necessary reasons, including uterine fibroids, endometriosis, cancer, and persistent vaginal bleeding.

Hysterectomy can also be performed as a cosmetic or elective surgery. Contemporary approaches to hysterectomy employ minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopy and robotic-assisted surgery, which result in less blood loss, less pain, and a shorter recovery period.

Labiaplasty

Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure of the vulva that involves the reduction of the labia minora or labia majora. Large or asymmetrical labia can cause discomfort or embarrassment to women.

Contemporary techniques for labiaplasty include wedge resection and de-epithelialization. These techniques result in minimal scarring and improved cosmetic appearance, and can also correct functional problems such as pain during intercourse.

Vaginoplasty

Vaginoplasty is a surgical procedure that is performed on women who have experienced vaginal relaxation due to aging, childbirth, or hormonal changes. The procedure involves tightening of the vaginal muscles and tissues to improve sexual gratification.

Contemporary techniques for vaginoplasty include laser therapy, radiofrequency, and ultrasonic therapy, which result in minimal recovery time and improved sexual function.

Ovarian Cystectomy

An ovarian cystectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of ovarian cysts. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop from the ovary, which can cause pain or discomfort.

Traditional approaches to ovarian cystectomy involved a laparotomy with a large incision, but contemporary techniques involve the use of laparoscopy and robotic-assisted surgery, which result in a smaller incision, less bleeding, and a faster recovery period.

Fallopian Tubal Ligation

Fallopian tubal ligation is a surgical procedure that involves the permanent blocking or severing of the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy.

The traditional approach involved an abdominal incision, but contemporary techniques involve a laparoscopic approach or robotic-assisted surgery, which results in a smaller incision, shorter surgery time, and quicker recovery period.

Excision of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside the uterus. This can cause chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and infertility. Excision of endometriosis involves surgical removal of the tissue.

Contemporary approaches to excision of endometriosis involve laparoscopy or robotic-assisted surgery, which result in less postoperative pain, a shorter recovery period and better outcomes.

Clitoral Hood Reduction

Clitoral hood reduction is a surgical procedure that involves the reduction of the clitoral hood, which is the tissue that covers the clitoris. An excessive clitoral hood can cause functional problems such as difficulty with sexual arousal and hygiene.

Contemporary surgical approaches to clitoral hood reduction involve a wedge excision of the tissue, which results in less scarring and better cosmetic appearance.

Perineoplasty

Perineoplasty is a surgical procedure that is performed to correct tears in the perineum, the area between the vagina and the anus, that can occur during childbirth.

The procedure involves the restoration of the perineal structure and can improve functional problems such as incontinence, pain during sexual intercourse, and embarrassing deformities. Contemporary techniques for perineoplasty include laser and radiofrequency therapy, which result in less scarring, less pain and a shorter recovery period.

Pelvic Floor Reconstruction

Pelvic floor reconstruction is a surgical procedure that is performed to correct pelvic organ prolapse, which is the descent or dropping of the pelvic organs, such as the uterus, bladder, or rectum, from their normal anatomical positions.

The procedure involves the restoration of the anatomical support and results in improved urinary and sexual function. Contemporary techniques for pelvic floor reconstruction involve laparoscopy or robot-assisted surgery, which result in less blood loss and a shorter hospital stay.