Second free radial forearm flap for urethral reconstruction after partial flap necrosis of tube-in-tube phalloplasty with radial forearm flap: a report of two cases

Microsurgery. 2014 Jan;34(1):58-63. doi: 10.1002/micr.22168. Epub 2013 Sep 3.

Abstract

We present a salvage procedure to reconstruct the neo-urethra after partial flap necrosis occurring in free radial forearm flap (RFF) phalloplasty for sex reassignment surgery. Two cases of tube-in-tube phalloplasty using a free sensate RFF are described in which partial flap necrosis occurred involving the complete length of the neo-urethra and a strip of the outer lining of the neo-phallus. Neo-urethra-reconstruction was performed with a second RFF from the contralateral side providing well-vascularized tissue. No flap-related complications were observed. Twelve months postoperatively, both patients were able to void while standing. A satisfactory aesthetic appearance of the neo-phallus could be preserved with an excellent tactile and erogenous sensitivity. Using this technique, we successfully salvaged the neo-urethra and reconstructed the outer lining of the neo-phallus

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Forearm / surgery
  • Free Tissue Flaps* / pathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Necrosis
  • Penis / surgery*
  • Postoperative Complications / surgery*
  • Sex Reassignment Surgery / methods*
  • Urethra / surgery*
  • Urologic Surgical Procedures, Male / methods