Survival Rate after Individualized Approach in Treatment of Vulvar Cancer: A Ten-Year Single Institution Experience

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate overall survival and recurrence-free survival rate in patients with squamous cell vulvar cancer after applying an individualized therapeutic approach. Methods: The concept of individualized therapeutic approach in the treatment of squamous cell vulvar cancer was defined and 113 patients with the diagnosis were studied. All these patients were diagnosed, operated on and followed up at the Clinic of Gynecologic Oncology of the University Hospital Pleven, Bulgaria. Treatment was individualized and more conservative surgical techniques were applied when possible. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate overall survival and disease-free survival rates. Results: Application of individualized approach resulting in: The 5-year survival rate was 73%, and the 10-year survival rate was about 67%. The five-year disease-free survival rate was about 57%, and ten-year disease-free survival rate was about 43%. Conclusion: High rates can be achieved through applying more conservative surgical techniques and individualized therapeutic approach in patients with vulvar cancer.