Use of Suprapubic Panniculus for Split-Thickness Skin Graft in Buried Penis Repair

Background

In the United States, acquired buried penis deformity is an increasingly more common condition. Management of the buried penis deformity is accomplished with removal of macerated skin and subcutaneous tissue from the panniculus and prepubic region, and replacement of denuded penile skin. If local tissue advancement is insufficient to cover the defect, a skin graft may be required. Though the anterior thigh is commonly used, this creates a second defect. Here we describe 2 cases of split-thickness skin grafts harvested from the panniculus to cover buried penis deformities.

Methods

Two patients with a buried penis deformity were identified. The denuded suprapubic tissue was elevated. Using inferior traction, split-thickness skin grafts were harvested and placed onto the shaft of the penis. The remaining excess tissue was resected.

Results

One patient had a fungal rash that resolved with topical treatment. The other patient had a hematoma requiring surgical evacuation. Neither patient had any other complications, and both had over 95% take of the split-thickness skin grafts.

Conclusions

These cases demonstrate the successful use of pannicular skin grafts for buried penis deformity correction. This donor site avoids creation of a second defect. As demonstrated here, the grafts are a durable option, even in the setting of local infection and hematoma.