Corpus spongiosum flap: a unique technique in the management of urosymphyseal fistula.

Abstract

Urosymphseal fistulas are a debilitating but treatable consequence of the combination of radiotherapy and endoscopic interventions in prostate cancer patients. Treatment includes fistula excision with a tissue flap to prevent communication of involved structures and provide structural and vascular support. We introduce a unique surgical approach of mobilizing and utilizing a corpus spongiosum flap in urosymphyseal fistula repair. A retrospective study identified two patients who underwent repair with a pedicled corpus spongiosum flap at our institution. The corpus spongiosum had adequate length and vascularization and limited the need for extra-pelvic muscle flaps, thus maintaining muscle integrity in the abdomen and thighs. Following extirpative surgery, both patients had durable fistula closure, decreased pelvic pain, and resolution of lower urinary tract symptoms and osteomyelitis. These cases highlight the potential of the corpus spongiosum to be a reasonable alternative interpositional flap in genitourinary reconstruction.