Management of multiple failed repairs of the phallus using tissue expanders: long-term postpubertal results.

PURPOSE: We present the long-term results of our experience with application of tissue expanders for phallic reconstruction in patients with a history of multiple surgical repairs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 16 patients who underwent penile tissue expansion for treatment of failed phallic reconstruction. The patients were 5 to 22 years old (mean age 9.9) at the time of the procedure. The original diagnoses were congenital adrenal hyperplasia (1 patient), partial penile amputation (1), epispadias (3) and proximal hypospadias (11). We used different shapes and numbers of tissue expanders according to the estimated skin augmentation requirement for final reconstructive surgery. The injection port was placed at the suprapubic area lateral to the penile base, with a small incision between the anticipated expander pouch and the reservoir. Penile tissue expanders were inflated by injections after 1 to 2 weeks postoperatively. Definitive reconstructive surgery was then planned and the tissue expander was removed at penile reconstruction at 2 to 11 months (mean 4.6) after implantation.

RESULTS: Only 1 tissue expander was removed due to erosion. However, sufficient expanded skin was available for urethral reconstructions and penile skin coverage in all patients (100%). There were 2 cases of overlying penile skin redness, which resolved with temporary balloon deflation. Two patients had urethrocutaneous fistulas, which were successfully repaired later. Two additional patients required meatal dilation/urethromeatoplasty for meatal stenosis. These complications were corrected within 1 year postoperatively. After a long-term followup of 3 to 10 years (mean 6.5) as patients progressed through puberty, only 3 had mild chordee. At the end of followup acceptable cosmetic and functional results were achieved in 13 patients (81%).

CONCLUSIONS: Tissue expansion is associated with few complications and good cosmetic results for phallic reconstruction in patients with minimal residual skin available for additional reconstructive efforts after repeated surgeries.