Total Urethra and Penile Shaft Reconstruction with Combined Pedicled Anterolateral Thigh Flap and Radial Forearm Free Flap after Total Penectomy

Abstract

Total reconstruction of the penis (TPR) represents a challenge for urologists and plastic surgeons, especially when urethral length is severely reduced. We here describe, for the first time in an oncologic scenario, a double flap phalloplasty using a pedicled anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap for penile reconstruction and a radial forearm free flap (RFFF) for complete neourethra and glans reconstruction following penile amputation. A 48-year-old patient came to our department following a total penectomy with inferior urethral derivation. The indication for a double flap phalloplasty was posed as only way to fully reconstruct the urethra on its length avoiding possible complications of single flap reconstruction using tube-into-tube technique. Both flaps healed uneventfully with no neourethral strictures or fistulas described. At 18 months follow-up, the patient was extremely satisfied with the aesthetic result and was able to void in standing position. We think that a double free tissue transfer for TPR should be considered, particularly when a urethral length > 14 cm needs to be reconstructed. While the pedicled ALT can be used to reconstruct a proper penile shaft with an easily concealed scar, the RFFF can provide adequate neourethra length with satisfactory sensory recovery at the neoglans.

Keywords

• penile reconstruction
• urethra reconstruction
• alt perforator flap
• double flap