Autologous buccal mucosal graft for urethral reconstruction.

OBJECTIVES

The search for an adequate tissue for reconstruction of the urethra in those patients with a paucity of local skin continues. Over the past 18 months, the use of buccal mucosa as a substitution for urethra was evaluated.

METHODS

Six patients who had complex hypospadias had buccal mucosa grafts for urethral reconstruction. All patients had had previous surgery for repair of chordee or significant complications from previous surgery with a result of lack of penile skin. Patients were operated on and followed for 8 to 17 months.

RESULTS

Buccal mucosa was used as a rolled tube in 4 patients, an onlay graft in 1, and a folded tube in 1. A urethrocutaneous fistula that was repaired 6 months after the buccal surgery was the only complication.

CONCLUSIONS

By virtue of its tissue characteristics, ease of handling, and ease of harvest, buccal mucosa is an excellent tissue for urethral reconstruction.