Basic Consideration

Abstract

An optimal clinical setting for complex vulvar reconstruction should meet the requirements necessary for inpatient treatment. The facility must be specialized and well equipped, with well-qualified and motivated staff members, because therapy of FGM/C patients needs professionalism, accuracy, and passion. The facility should offer a pleasant examination room with a changing area, so that the patient can feel comfortable. Furthermore, a system to perform standardized photography should be available. Photographs, of course, are especially necessary to document the preoperative and postoperative status. The office-photography arrangement should provide two frontal light units for uniform illumination and a simple homogeneous background for increased contrast and reduced distraction to get photographs in the upright position (Fig. 2.1a). An examination chair should also be provided for office photography (Fig. 2.1b). Basic viewpoints include frontal (Fig. 2.1c) and back (Fig. 2.1d) while standing, as well as frontal with the vulva at rest (Fig. 2.1e) as well as the vulva slightly tightened (Fig. 2.1f) in the supine position with angled legs or the lithotomy position, respectively. The patient must be informed of and consent to the purpose of medical use of the photographs as well as electronic archiving of the personal data.