Sacral neuromodulation in the treatment of vulvar vestibulitis syndrome

Obstet Gynecol. 2009 Aug;114(2 Pt 2):487-489. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0b013e3181af5f80.

Abstract

Background: Vulvar vestibular syndrome is a chronic pain syndrome that typically results in pain and irritation of the vulvar vestibule and has few effective options for treatment.

Case: A 42-year-old woman presented with symptoms consistent with chronic vulvar vestibular syndrome that was refractory to multiple attempted therapies. The patient was offered sacral neuromodulation for treatment. She underwent a standard two-phase surgical implantation with good result at 2 years postimplantation.

Conclusion: Sacral neuromodulation was shown to be a valid treatment option for this patient and resulted in excellent patient satisfaction at 2-year follow-up. Although the exact mechanism of action is unknown, sacral neuromodulation may be a viable option for the management of chronic pain syndromes of the vulva and vagina.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy*
  • Electrodes, Implanted
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lumbosacral Plexus*
  • Spinal Nerve Roots*
  • Vulvar Vestibulitis / therapy*