Surgical treatment of clitoral phimosis caused by lichen sclerosus.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to examine surgical outcomes for the correction of clitoral phimosis caused by lichen sclerosus.

STUDY

DESIGN

Eight women with lichen sclerosus underwent surgical repair of clitoral phimosis. They were assessed 12-36 months postoperatively by an independent research assistant. A questionnaire was used to assess the patients' perception of surgical success.

RESULTS

Patients reported that they were either very satisfied (88%) or satisfied (12%) with the results of their surgery. All 4 women who had decreased clitoral sensation before surgery regained clitoral sensation and their ability to achieve orgasm.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that surgery for clitoral phimosis caused by lichen sclerosus can be performed to restore clitoral sensation and vulvar anatomy. There were few complications and a high degree of patient satisfaction with the procedure.