Reconstruction of the male external genitalia.

Congenital malformation, infection, lymphatic obstruction, trauma and carcinoma all have common denominator, the loss of tissue. This loss necessitates the surgeon's use of various techniques in reconstructing the male external genitalia. The stretching of remaining skin, split thickness grafts, flaps and pedicle tube grafts are used to cover the denuded area or reconstruct the penis and scrotum. These methods have been used recently in transsexual operations, combining the expertise of the plastic surgeon, urologist, endocrinologist and psychiatrist. Further improvement upon the preceding approaches is sought to maintain sensation, achieve acceptable cosmesis, create a sexual organ as well as a urinary conduit and prevent severe postoperative complications.