A Novel Technique for Mapping the Vascularity of Labia Minora Prior to Labiaplasty: Cold Light Illumination

Abstract

Objective Aim of the study was to assess the feasibility of a novel technique to determine the vascularity of labia minora prior to labiaplasty. Methods A cold light source employed in laparoscopic procedures was used to illuminate the outer surface of the labia minora as described in this prospective descriptive study. Results Of the patients, 46.1% (n = 41) had upper third prominence, 36% (n = 32) had middle third prominence, and 18% (n = 16) had lower third prominence according to the Banwell classification of morphologies. Right labia minora width was 0-2 cm in 51.7% (n = 46), 2-4 cm in 47.2% (n = 42) and > 4 cm in 1.1% (n = 1) of cases. Left labia minora width was 0-2 cm in 52.8% (n = 47), 2-4 cm in 41.6% (n = 37) and > 4 cm in 5.6% (n = 5) of cases. The incidence of Anterior 2 and Posterior 1 vessels in the different morphologies were statistically significantly different (p = 0.007, p = 0.018). The Anterior 2 vessel was higher in the lower morphology group whereas the Posterior 1 vessel was higher in the upper morphology group. A central vessel was observed in 93.3% (n = 83) of patients in the left labium minus and the right labium minus. The incidence of the Posterior 1 vessel was significantly higher in the left labium minus than in the right labium minus (p = 0.021). Discussion This novel technique to assess labial vascularity using a cold light source could be very useful to reduce dehiscence by avoiding excessive resection of highly vascularized tissue. Most units can easily access a cold light source, which can be used to assess labial vascularity prior to labiaplasty.