[Preparation of the scrotal skin for urethroplasty: depilation technique].

OBJECTIVE

To describe a simple method of depilation of scrotal skin and the advantages of utilizing scrotal skin flaps for urethroplasty in the postpubertal male.

METHODS

Depilation of the scrotal flap is achieved by electrocoagulating the dermal papillae with a needle specifically designed for scrotal hair. The frequency and the number of depilations are determined by the hair biological cycle.

RESULTS

Scrotal hair is removed with no injury to tissue or changes in the characteristics of scrotal skin. This method of depilation is well-tolerated and no complication has been observed.

CONCLUSION

The scrotal skin depilated provides excellent flaps for reconstructive surgery of complex urethral strictures, specially those extending beyond the penoscrotal angle up to the membranous and prostatic inframontanum portion.