Vaginal dilators in the prevention of vaginal stenosis in patients submitted to gynecological brachytherapy: systematic literature review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25758/set.2297Keywords:
Gynecological brachytherapy, Vaginal stenosis, Vaginal dilator, Gynecological cancerAbstract
Introduction – Vaginal stenosis is a gynecological brachytherapy side effect, resulting from damage by ionizing radiation on the vaginal mucosa. Vaginal stenosis is characterized by a narrowing of the vaginal vault, lubrification and elasticity loss, causing discomfort and unwellness, thus decreasing the quality of life of patients. The most used method to minimize and prevent vaginal stenosis is by using vaginal dilators. Methods – Between March and April 2020, research was carried out on Scopus, PubMed and ScienceDirect following the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews, to try to establish a consensus regarding the use of vaginal dilators in the prevention of vaginal stenosis after brachytherapy. Results – Vaginal dilation should start from two weeks after completion of brachytherapy, with the frequency of use preferably three times a week, for ten minutes, for at least one year. Given written information and follow-up is very important for patient’s adherence to the use of dilators. Conclusion – The use of vaginal dilators is the most indicated to prevent vaginal stenosis, and its use is recommended two to three times a week, for ten minutes, with a duration of at least one year. The information provided is very important for patient compliance.
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