Vulvar cancer is a malignancy arising on the outer surface of the female genitalia, most commonly the labia majora. It is predominantly a squamous cell carcinoma and is associated with HPV infection (in younger women) and lichen sclerosus (in older women). While relatively uncommon, it requires prompt specialist surgical evaluation as delay in diagnosis can result in advancement to regional lymph node disease.
Vulvar cancer is a malignancy arising on the outer surface of the female genitalia, most commonly the labia majora. It is predominantly a squamous cell carcinoma and is associated with HPV infection (in younger women) and lichen sclerosus (in older women). While relatively uncommon, it requires prompt specialist surgical evaluation as delay in diagnosis can result in advancement to regional lymph node disease.
Dr. Rahul Wagh is an experienced vulvar cancer surgeon in Pune offering radical wide local excision and sentinel lymph node biopsy, minimally invasive techniques that have replaced radical vulvectomy in most early-stage cases. He works in close collaboration with gynaecological oncologists and radiation oncologists in Pune to provide comprehensive, modern vulvar cancer care.
The management of vulvar cancer has evolved significantly in recent years towards organ-preserving and sentinel node-based approaches. At his Baner clinics, Dr. Wagh ensures that eligible patients are offered sentinel lymph node biopsy rather than inguinal lymph node dissection, significantly reducing the risk of lymphoedema while maintaining accurate nodal staging.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Vulvar Cancer in its early stages may not cause obvious symptoms, which is why recognising these warning signs and seeking prompt evaluation in Pune is critical:
1. Persistent itching or burning of the vulva
2. A lump, growth, or thickening on the vulva
3. A sore or ulcer on the vulva that does not heal
4. Bleeding from the vulva not related to menstruation
5. Pain or tenderness in the vulvar area
6. Changes in the colour or texture of vulvar skin
7. Painful urination
8. A swollen lymph node in the groin
Why Choose Dr. Rahul Wagh for Vulvar Cancer in Pune?
MCH Surgical Oncology
Highest qualification in surgical oncology with specialised fellowship training in robotic-assisted and laparoscopic cancer surgery, rare expertise available in Pune.
Oncoplastic Techniques
Breast-conserving surgeries that combine tumour removal with immediate aesthetic reconstruction, prioritising both oncological safety and quality of life.
Robotic Precision
Robotic-assisted surgery provides greater accuracy, smaller incisions, reduced blood loss and a significantly faster recovery compared to open surgery.
5000+ Proven Surgeries
A track record of successful outcomes across 5000+ cancer surgeries. Trusted by patients from Baner, Aundh, Wakad, Hinjewadi and across Pune.
Vulvar Cancer Surgical Treatment Options in Pune
Dr. Rahul Wagh offers the following surgical treatment options at his clinics in Baner, Pune:
Wide Local Excision
Surgical removal of the vulvar tumour with a 1cm margin of normal tissue, organ-preserving for early-stage disease
Radical Wide Local Excision
Extended excision for larger or more invasive vulvar tumours with wider margins
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB)
Minimally invasive groin lymph node assessment, avoids full inguinal dissection in node-negative patients
Inguinal Lymph Node Dissection (ILND)
Surgical removal of inguinal lymph nodes when nodal involvement is confirmed
Radical Vulvectomy
Complete removal of the vulva, reserved for extensive disease
Reconstructive Surgery
Skin grafting or flap reconstruction to restore vulvar anatomy after resection
Your Vulvar Cancer Treatment Journey in Pune
1
Staging Consultation at Baner
MRI pelvis, CT chest/abdomen, biopsy confirmation, and HPV/lichen sclerosus assessment.
2
Wide Excision at Manipal Baner
Radical wide local excision with margin confirmation at Manipal Hospital, Baner.
3
Sentinel Node Biopsy
Bilateral sentinel lymph node biopsy under blue dye and radioisotope guidance.
4
Adjuvant Therapy Coordination
Post-surgery radiotherapy or chemoradiation coordination with oncologists in Pune.
Other Cancer Types Treated by Dr. Rahul Wagh in Pune
In addition to breast cancer, Dr. Wagh provides expert surgical oncology care for the following cancer types in Pune:
Yes. Early-stage vulvar cancer (Stage I–II) has excellent cure rates above 85% with surgery. Sentinel lymph node biopsy allows accurate staging while minimising the risk of lymphoedema.
No. Modern organ-preserving surgery (wide local excision) is now standard for most early-stage vulvar cancers. Radical vulvectomy is reserved for advanced or multifocal disease.
Full inguinal lymph node dissection carries a significant risk of leg lymphoedema. Sentinel lymph node biopsy, offered by Dr. Wagh for eligible patients, greatly reduces this risk.
Yes. Inguinal lymph node involvement is the most important prognostic factor in vulvar cancer. This is why lymph node assessment (SLNB or ILND) is a critical part of surgical staging.
Dr. Wagh consults at Manipal Hospital, Baner and High Street Square, Baner Gaon. Call +91 8956002781.
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