Long-term results of total penile reconstruction with a prefabricated lateral arm free flap.
"We treated 3 female-to-male transsexuals and a man with penile amputation with a 2-stage technique of total penile reconstruction. In the first stage the neourethra is constructed as a tubed skin graft incorporated in the territory of the lateral arm flap. Three to 6 months later the lateral arm flap with its well epithelialized conduit is fashioned into a penis, an inflatable prosthesis is incorporated and the construction is transferred to the pubis with vascular, urethral and nerve repairs. RESULTS: In addition to the 2 surgical procedures required to construct the penis, the patients have required an average of 3 revisions... All 4 patients are able to void in the standing position and are free of fistulas or strictures. The inflatable prosthesis allows them to achieve penetration during sexual intercourse. All reconstructed penises have recovered erogenous and tactile sensibility. Patient satisfaction with the reconstructed penis is high. All transsexuals are married and fully integrated as men."
