Non-Tensile Tunica Albuginea Plication for the Correction of Penile Curvature

ABSTRACT

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of non-tensile tunica albuginea plication (NTTAP) using nonabsorbable sutures for the correction of congenital and acquired penile curvature and to determine the key points for a successful outcome of this procedure. Patients and Methods: From June 2004 to July 2007; 43 patients with penile curvature (35 congenital and 8 secondary to Peyronie's disease) underwent surgical correction by NTTAP. The indications were difficult or impossible vaginal penetration; and a cosmetically unacceptable penis. For tunica albuginea plication (TAP) we applied the 16 dot procedure using non-absorbable sutures (Tycronr 2/0 polyester fiber). Results: After a mean follow-up period of 18 months; successful results with respect to penile straightening; normal erection; penetration and sensation; confirmed both subjectively and objectively; were achieved in all patients. Post-operative penile shortening of less than 1.5 cm was present in 50of the cases; but did not affect intercourse. Post-operative complications were mild and reversible; they consisted of penile skin necrosis after circumcising incisions and post-operative pain upon nocturnal erection that subsided after a few weeks with the frequent use of ice compresses. The overall satisfaction rate was nearly 100(35/43 very satisfied and 8/43 satisfied). Conclusion:NTTAP is a simple and effective method for the correction of congenital and acquired penile curvature. The key points for successful appropriate expectations; and careful discussion of the location of the suture sites. There is no need for mobilization of the urethra or neurovascular bundle; which adds a great advantage to this easy and simple technique. Cutting through the tunica albuginea; which may prevent postoperative erectile dysfunction; is not necessary. A disadvantage of this procedure is that it cannot correct hour-glass deformity