Partial penectomy with reconstruction using a split-thickness skin graft: a multicenter experience.

Abstract

Background: Penile cancer is a relatively rare neoplasm in developed countries, with the majority of newly diagnosed cases presenting as organ-confined, with a 5-year survival rate of 90%. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the impact of penile tumor resection on sexual and urinary function. Regrettably, the literature is devoid of comprehensive, step-by-step video instructions for the surgical procedure of partial penectomy with reconstruction using a split-thickness skin graft (0.3 mm). This study aimed to demonstrate a step-by-step video of the partial penectomy technique with reconstruction using a split-thickness skin graft and to present the outcomes of this procedure.

Methods: This multicenter study was initiated in April 2019 and completed in February 2023, enrolling 54 male patients who underwent partial penectomy and reconstruction using a split-thickness skin graft (0.3 mm). The study collected data on the local recurrence rates, overall survival, sexual and voiding functions and complications.

Results: The average patient age was 61.26 years old (range: 26-82 years). Following penile-sparing surgery, a substantial proportion of patients exhibited favorable results. Among the 54 patients, 37 (68.5%) were classified as sexually active and 50 (92.6%) demonstrated good voiding function. Excellent cosmetic outcomes were achieved in 52 patients (96.3%), and the average size of the negative resection margins was 4.75±4.162 mm (range: 0.5 to 20 mm). Notably, no positive margins were observed. Patient outcomes depend on the tumor stage and histologic grade rather than the size of the surgical margin.

Conclusions: Partial penectomy with reconstruction using a split-thickness skin graft has excellent oncological, functional, and cosmetic outcomes.