Penile reconstruction using skin flap and peritoneal tube grafts in rabbit: a preliminary study / 中华医学美学美容杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate a new method for the reconstruction of the urethra using peritoneal free grafts in phalloplasty in a rabbit model. Methods Animal models were established in 24 adult male New Zealand white rabbits, which were randomly divided into the peritoneal graft group (n=12) and peritoneum-skin graft group (n=12). In the former group the peritoneal tube grafts with the mesothelial surface inward were used as the urethral substitutes. And a circumferential 1 cm rim of scrotal skin was inserted at the tip of the tubularized peritoneal graft for urethroplasty in the latter group. Subsequently, a superficial epigastric fasciovascular pedicle flap for phalloplasty was harvested and tubed over the reconstructed urethra. The process of growth was observed grossly. Results The reconstructed penis survived well without urethral stricture, and the peritoneal-lined grafts survived in all rabbits with a smooth, moist quality and without ulceration and fibrosis. Gross examination showed 8 meatal occlusions with fistulas simultaneously in the peritoneal graft group, and 3 fistulas in the peritoneum-skin graft group. Conclusion The authors have successfully designed the rabbit model of the urethroplasty using the tubularized peritoneal free grafts in the penile reconstruction and demonstrated the possibility of the new method for phalloplasty brings a light to clinical study.