Standard Operating Procedures for Vascular Surgery in Erectile Dysfunction: Revascularization and Venous Procedures

IntroductionThe impact of penile blood supply on erectile function was recognized some 500 years ago. At the turn of the 20th century first results of penile venous ligation were published and in 1973 the first surgical attempts to restore penile arterial inflow were undertaken. Numerous techniques were published in the meantime, but inclusion criteria, patient selection, and success evaluation differed extremely between study groups.AimTo develop evidence-based standard operating procedures (SOPs) for vascular surgery in erectile dysfunction, based on recent state of the art consensus reports and recently published articles in peer-reviewed journals.MethodsBased on the recent publication of the consensus process during the 2009 International Consultation on Sexual Medicine in Paris, recommendations are derived for diagnosis and surgical treatment of vascular erectile dysfunction. In addition several recent publications in this field not mentioned in the consensus statements are included in the discussion.Main Outcome MeasureThe Oxford system of evidence-based review was systematically applied. Due to the generally low level of evidence in this field expert opinions were accepted, if published after a well-defined consensus process in peer-reviewed journals.ResultsReferring to penile revascularization it may be concluded, that in the face of missing randomized trials, only recommendations grade D may be given: this kind of surgery may be offered to men less than 55 years, who are nonsmokers, nondiabetic, and demonstrate isolated arterial stenoses in the absence of generalized vascular disease.The evidence level for recommendations concerning penile venous ligations may be even lower. Too many unsolved controversies exist and universal diagnostic criteria for patient selection as well as operative technique selection have not been unequivocally established. This kind of surgery is still considered investigational but may be offered in special situations on an individualized basis in an investigational or research setting after obtaining written consent, using both pre- and postoperatively validated measuring instruments of success evaluation.ConclusionsSOPs for penile revascularization procedures can be developed, concerning a highly selected patient group with isolated arterial stenoses. Based on the available data it is not yet possible to define SOPs for surgical treatment of corporal veno-occlusive dysfunction. Sohn M, Hatzinger M, Goldstein I, and Krishnamurti S. Standard operating procedures for vascular surgery in erectile dysfunction: Revascularization and venous procedures. J Sex Med 2013;10:172-179.     

Priapism: Pathogenesis,Epidemiology, and Management

IntroductionPriapism describes a persistent erection arising from dysfunction of mechanisms regulating penile tumescence, rigidity, and flaccidity. A correct diagnosis of priapism is a matter of urgency requiring identification of underlying hemodynamics.AimsTo define the types of priapism, address its pathogenesis and epidemiology, and develop an evidence-based guideline for effective management.MethodsSix experts from four countries developed a consensus document on priapism; this document was presented for peer review and debate in a public forum and revisions were made based on recommendations of chairpersons to the International Consultation on Sexual Medicine. This report focuses on guidelines written over the past decade and reviews the priapism literature from 2003 to 2009. Although the literature is predominantly case series, recent reports have more detailed methodology including duration of priapism, etiology of priapism, and erectile function outcomes.Main Outcome MeasuresConsensus recommendations were based on evidence-based literature, best medical practices, and bench research.ResultsBasic science supporting current concepts in the pathophysiology of priapism, and clinical research supporting the most effective treatment strategies are summarized in this review.ConclusionsPrompt diagnosis and appropriate management of priapism are necessary to spare patients ineffective interventions and maximize erectile function outcomes. Future research is needed to understand corporal smooth muscle pathology associated with genetic and acquired conditions resulting in ischemic priapism. Better understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of stuttering ischemic priapism will offer new avenues for medical intervention. Documenting erectile function outcomes based on duration of ischemic priapism, time to interventions, and types of interventions is needed to establish evidence-based guidance. In contrast, pathogenesis of nonischemic priapism is understood, and largely attributable to trauma. Better documentation of onset of high-flow priapism in relation to time of injury, and response to conservative management vs. angiogroaphic or surgical interventions is needed to establish evidence-based guidance. Broderick GA, Kadioglu A, Bivalacqua TJ, Ghanem H, Nehra A, and Shamloul R. Priapism: Pathogenesis, epidemiology and management.     

Controversies in Sexual Medicine: Is There a Place for Conservative Treatment in Peyronie's Disease?

IntroductionPeyronie's disease (PD) is a relatively common disorder affecting middle aged men. Conservative nonsurgical treatments include oral, topical, and intra-lesional pharmacotherapies, vacuum stretching, and mechanical traction.MethodsFour people with expertise and/or interest in the area of PD were asked to contribute their opinions with regard to the safety and efficacy of nonsurgical conservative treatments.Main Outcome MeasureTo provide food for thought, discussion, and possible further research in a poorly discussed area of sexual medicine.ResultsOf the four experts writing on the topic, one believes a combination of medical therapy and penile traction has positive potential for curvature. Another feels that although medical therapies have potential to alleviate pain, there is little evidence to show that they help with curvature or that penile traction helps. A third expert proposes dividing the disease into phases, where patients in the acute phase may benefit from conservative therapy, whereas patients whose disease is stable require surgical intervention. The last expert agrees that the therapy should depend on the stage of the disease, but believes like the first expert that there is a role for traction therapy for patients with stable disease.ConclusionThere is a need for guidelines for nonsurgical therapies for patients with PD, but there is a paucity of evidence as to their efficacy. Vardi Y, Levine LA, Chen J, Hatzimouratidis K, and Sohn M. Is there a place for conservative treatment in Peyronie's disease? J Sex Med 2009;6:903–909.     

Quality of Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review

IntroductionClinical practice guidelines (CPGs) guide the diagnosis and treatment of erectile dysfunction using different methodologies. Nonetheless, the quality of published CPGs is unknown.AimTo evaluate the quality of CPGs for diagnosis and treatment of patients with erectile dysfunction.MethodsThe Medline, Embase, and LILACS databases were searched using structured strategies. The evidence was complemented by searches on websites of scientific societies and guideline developers. The CPG quality was assessed using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation (AGREE II) instrument.Main Outcome MeasureThe outcome measure included the quality of CPGs in accordance with the AGREE II instrument score.Results17 guidelines met the selection criteria. 15 had recommendations for diagnosis, 16, had recommendations for treatment, and 1 included a follow-up. Most of the guidelines were developed in Europe (35.3%) and North America (29.4%), 2 were prepared by specialized groups (11.7%), and 1 was funded by public resources. The most common development method was the panel of experts (9 guides, 52.9%). 5 guidelines were of high quality as per the methodological rigor, as follows: Cancer Care Ontario 2016 (76.5%), European Urology Association 2018 (65.6%), American Urological Association 2018 (62.5%), American College of Physicians (62.5%), and Japanese Society for Sexual Medicine (60.4%). There was a significant relationship (P = .043) between the methodological quality of the guidelines and the funding source.Clinical ImplicationsBy knowing the quality of the clinical practice guidelines, users can make more objective decisions about their use, which has an impact on patient care.Strength & LimitationsHigh-quality CPGs frequently used in health-care practice were identified. Solely CPGs in Spanish, English, and Portuguese were included, which generates selection bias in the results.ConclusionsThe number of CPGs for erectile dysfunction developed using international standards that meet the AGREE II quality criteria is low. Scientific societies have a strong interest in developing guidelines on this topic, whereas the participation of governmental organizations is limited.Sandoval-Salinas C, Saffon JP, Corredor HA. Quality of Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review. J Sex Med 2020;17:678–687.     

The Dilemma of Penile Prosthesis Implantation in Sex Offenders

BackgroundPenile prosthesis surgeons face an ethical dilemma when confronted with a sex offender who seeks surgical management of erectile dysfunction.AimTo provide practice guidelines to screen and manage patients with a history of sexual violence prior to surgery.MethodsThree urologists with expertise in penile prosthesis surgery and 1 medical bioethicist were asked to contribute their opinions and provide recommendations to address this controversial topic.OutcomesExpert opinion supported by analysis of available literature and institutional experience.ResultsThe authors review current United States legislation, published literature on sex offender registration, and institutional data on the prevalence of sex offenders among men seeking penile prosthesis placement. Within a context established by medical bioethical principles, the authors propose a practice guideline for screening sex offenders prior to penile implantation surgery and referral for trained psychological evaluation prior to surgical management.Strengths & LimitationsStrengths: multidisciplinary approach in data acquisition including bioethical and legal review. Limitations: Lack of available evidence regarding recidivism risk in sex offenders who undergo penile prosthesis placement.ConclusionSex offenders exist among the population of patients seeking surgical placement of a penile prosthesis. A standardized practice guideline for management of this population should be employed with the intention to reduce future harm.Zhang JH, DeWitt-Foy M, Jankowski J, et al. The Dilemma of Penile Prosthesis Implantation in Sex Offenders. J Sex Med 2021;18:1826–1829.     

Technological Advances in Penile Implant Surgery

BackgroundDuring the last century, surgical management of erectile dysfunction has evolved from an experimental concept to a core treatment modality with widespread use among the men's health community. Over time, innovations in materials, mechanical design elements, device coatings, and surgical technique have provided patients with low-risk, reliable, and reproducible erectile function with high satisfaction rates.AimTo provide a foundation for future innovation by improving understanding of historical penile prosthetics and the rationale behind incremental technological improvements for the contemporary Men's Health physician.MethodsLiterature review was conducted to generate a comprehensive review of historical technological innovations in penile implant surgery. Companies with FDA approved penile prosthetics in use in the United States were contacted for information regarding technological innovations in the past and future devices in development. A separate literature review was performed to identify any significant future device design elements being tested, even in the ex vivo setting, which may have future clinical applications.OutcomesTechnological innovations in penile implant surgery were described.ResultsCurrent options for the prosthetic surgeon include malleable penile prostheses (MPP), self-contained (2-piece) inflatable penile prostheses, and multicomponent (3-piece) inflatable penile prostheses. Current MPPs consist of a synthetic coated solid core which allow for manipulation of the penis for concealability while maintaining sufficient axial rigidity to achieve penetration when desired. Multi-component (3-Piece) IPPs currently include the Coloplast Titan and Boston Scientific/AMS 700 which consist of a fluid reservoir, intrascrotal pump, and intracavernosal cylinders. The devices have undergone numerous design updates to the cylinders, pump, reservoir, tubing, and external coatings to increase reliability and decrease short- and long-term complications.Clinical ImplicationsFuture innovations in penile prosthetic surgery seek to broaden the indications and applicability to the transgender community and improve both safety and functionality for patient and partner.Strengths & LimitationsThe review is limited primarily to penile prosthetics approved for current or historical clinical use in the United States and may not be representative of the global prosthetic environment. Additionally, the research and development of future innovations, particularly those provided by device manufacturers, is likely limited by non-disclosure to maintain a competitive advantage.ConclusionsPenile prosthetic surgery will undoubtedly remain integral to the treatment of erectile dysfunction, and education regarding the current state of technological innovation will empower the prosthetic surgeon and biomedical engineering community to improve contemporary patient care and drive the development of the next generation of implantable penile prosthetics.Barnard JT, Cakir OO, Ralph D, et al. Technological Advances in Penile Implant Surgery. J Sex Med 2021;18:1158–1166.     

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in Peyronie's Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BackgroundPeyronie's disease (PD) is associated with penile pain, deviation, and sexual dysfunction. Up till now, there is no conservative standard treatment for PD. However, the role of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is gaining increasing interest.AimTo evaluate the effect of ESWT on penile deviation, plaque size, erectile function, pain scale, and the rate of complications in PD patients.MethodsPubMed database was searched for articles published from January 2000 to November 2020, using related keywords and including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) only. Meta-analysis and forest plots were carried out using RevMan, and outcomes were reviewed by 2 authors independently. PRISMA guidelines were used in this article to achieve the quantitative and qualitative synthesis of data.OutcomesChanges in penile deviation, plaque size, erectile function, pain scale, and the rate of ESWT related complications.ResultsThe search yielded 73 articles. Three RCTs, including 117 patients in the ESWT group and 121 patients in the placebo group, were reviewed. ESWT is associated with reduction in plaque size (OR = 2.59, 95% CI (1.15–5.85), P= .02). No significant difference in reduction of penile deviation angle or rate of bruises were detected in post ESWT group when compared to placebo. No evidence was found to show an effect of ESWT on erectile function or pain scale.Clinical ImplicationsBased on the available RCTs, ESWT fails to improve penile curvature or pain in men with PD.  Although ESWT may reduce plaque size, this remains of questionable clinical significance.Strengths & LimitationsRCTs used different metrics to report the same outcome. Missed data were imputed to match the requirements of meta-analysis. However, there is still much data that cannot be estimated.ConclusionThe current data suggest that ESWT fails to improve penile curvature or pain in men with PD.  Although ESWT may reduce plaque size, this remains of questionable clinical significance, and further studies are required to confirm findings.Bakr AM, El-Sakka A. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in Peyronie's Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Sex Med 2021;18:1705–1714.     

A Novel Penile Splint as Early Traction Therapy After Grafting Techniques for Peyronie's Disease

BackgroundSome studies showed encouraging results on the efficacy and safety of penile traction therapy after Peyronie's disease (PD) surgery. The early traction therapy (ETT) could be an effective and safe approach to minimize penile shortening in patients undergoing PD surgery.AimTo evaluate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of a novel penile splint as ETT in patients with PD undergoing grafting techniques.MethodsPatients with PD underwent plaque incision and grafting technique; at the end of the procedure, a novel penile splint (ETT) was applied to all patient. The device consisted of 2 10CH intubating stylets, self-adapted to each patient, that kept the penis stretched with the aid of non-absorbable sutures. The total expense for the materials needed to build each penile splint was less than 15 euros. This active traction was maintained for 1–3 weeks; then, we removed the stitches leaving the device on-site for a passive traction. Within 3–4 weeks from surgery, the penile splint was replaced by a standard penile traction device.OutcomesThe main outcomes evaluated at 6 months included stretched penile length (SPL), penile curvature, International Index of Erectile Function-erectile function (IIEF-EF) domain, patient satisfaction, and time to first satisfactory sexual intercourse.ResultsA total of 46 patients were enrolled. The median preoperative IIEF-EF, penile curvature, and SPL were 27 points, 70°, and 13 cm, respectively. The median follow-up was 15 months. The median postoperative IIEF-EF was 25 points (P < .001). The median residual penile curvature was 10° (P < .001). The median postoperative SPL was 13 cm (P = .269). 8 patients (17.4%) lost 1 cm of SPL; no shortening greater than 1 cm was recorded. The median time to first satisfactory sexual intercourse and patient satisfaction score was 6 weeks and 9 points, respectively.Clinical ImplicationsOur results could pave the way for a new line of research, which in turn could lead to an improvement in the postoperative management of the patient undergoing surgery for PD.Strength & LimitationsThis is the first study evaluating the ETT after PD surgery. The main limitation of this study is the lack of a randomized control group. Other weaknesses are the small sample size and the short follow-up time.ConclusionOur novel penile splint is inexpensive, easy to assemble, and adaptable to the patient. ETT using this novel device, followed by standard traction therapy, seems to be feasible, effective, and safe.Fernández-Pascual E, Manfredi C, Cocci A, et al. A Novel Penile Splint as Early Traction Therapy After Grafting Techniques for Peyronie's Disease. J Sex Med 2020;17:1819–1824.     

An Innovative Strategy for Non-Grafting Penile Enlargement: A Novel Paradigm for Tunica Expansion Procedures

BackgroundPeyronie’s disease, diabetes, trauma, pelvic surgeries, and aging are conditions that promote penile fibrosis and trigger erectile dysfunction associated with penile reduction. These pathologies require an objective preoperative diagnosis and intraoperative management of penile shrinkage.AimThe goal is to develop a non-grafting procedure to promote lengthening using geometric patterns of multiple staggered small cuts on the tunica albuginea with an optimal ratio between tissue expansion and resistance to confine the cylinders inside the corpora cavernosa.MethodsBetween February 2016 and February 2019, 416 patients suffering penile shortening with or without Peyronie’s disease received implants using the tunica expansion procedures (TEP). Incisions were distributed in respective areas of the tunica to allow maximum expansion while maintaining strength to confine prosthetic cylinders within the corpora cavernosa to prevent bulges and denting.OutcomesIn accordance with these principles, surgical objectives and patient satisfaction were achieved in length and girth restoration regardless of the type of implant used to obtain adequate axial rigidity.ResultsThe sample of 416 patients included 287 cases of Peyronie’s disease having a mean axial deviation of 51° (0–90°) whose curvature was corrected in surgery, with pressure from the cylinders maintaining straightness for malleable and inflatable devices. Tunica constriction in 40.86% of cases was corrected with vertical relaxing incisions. Ventral glanspexy was performed intraoperatively in 92.8% of patients to prevent hypermobility. A penile gain of 3.3 cm (2–6) was measured intraoperatively.Clinical ImplicationsDiagnosis of penile shortening was performed by a stretch length test and pharmacologically induced erection together with the patient’s subjective opinion of penile loss. Lengthening procedure depends on the limit of the dissected neurovascular bundle. The patient and surgeon select the type of implant in accordance with his individual anatomic characteristics.Strengths and LimitationsThe TEP strategy is a non-grafting procedure based on tissue restitution by expansion instead of substitution, which provides surgeons a solution for penile enlargement to the limit of the dissected neurovascular bundle.ConclusionsThe TEP strategy has been demonstrated to be safe and effective to resolve problems of penile size reduction independently of penile curvature. It eliminates grafting and improves penile lengthening techniques using small, staggered cuts on the tunica albuginea, while maintaining tunica structural resistance to contain cylinders inside the corpora, preventing bulges and denting, facilitating tissue regeneration, and improving axial rigidity.Paulo H. Egydio, An Innovative Strategy for Non-Grafting Penile Enlargement: A Novel Paradigm for Tunica Expansion Procedures. J Sex Med 2020;17:2093–2103.     

Sexual Rehabilitation After Treatment For Prostate Cancer—Part 2: Recommendations From the Fourth International Consultation for Sexual Medicine (ICSM 2015)

IntroductionSexual dysfunction is common in patients after radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer.AimTo provide the International Consultation for Sexual Medicine (ICSM) 2015 recommendations concerning management strategies for post-RP erectile function impairment and to analyze post-RP sexual dysfunction other than erectile dysfunction.MethodsA literature search was performed using Google and PubMed database for English-language original and review articles published up to August 2016.Main Outcome MeasuresLevels of evidence (LEs) and grades of recommendations (GRs) are provided based on a thorough analysis of the literature and committee consensus.ResultsNine recommendations are provided by the ICSM 2015 committee on sexual rehabilitation after RP. Recommendation 6 states that the recovery of postoperative erectile function can take several years (LE = 2, GR = C). Recommendation 7 states there are conflicting data as to whether penile rehabilitation with phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors improves recovery of spontaneous erections (LE = 1, GR = A). Recommendation 8 states that the data are inadequate to support any specific regimen as optimal for penile rehabilitation (LE = 3, GR = C). Recommendation 9 states that men undergoing RP (any technique) are at risk of sexual changes other than erectile dysfunction, including decreased libido, changes in orgasm, anejaculation, Peyronie-like disease, and changes in penile size (LE = 2, GR = B).ConclusionThis article discusses Recommendations 6 to 9 of the ICSM 2015 committee on sexual rehabilitation after RP.Salonia A, Adaikan G, Buvat J, et al. Sexual Rehabilitation After Treatment For Prostate Cancer–Part 2: Recommendations From the Fourth International Consultation for Sexual Medicine (ICSM 2015). J Sex Med 2017;14:297–315.     

Multicenter Investigation of the Micro-Organisms Involved in Penile Prosthesis Infection: An Analysis of the Efficacy of the AUA and EAU Guidelines for Penile Prosthesis Prophylaxis

IntroductionPenile prosthesis infections remain challenging despite advancements in surgical technique, device improvements, and adoption of antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines.AimTo investigate penile prosthesis infection microbiology to consider which changes in practice could decrease infection rates, to evaluate current antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines, and to develop a proposed algorithm for penile prosthesis infections.MethodsThis retrospective institutional review board–exempt multi-institutional study from 25 centers reviewed intraoperative cultures obtained at explantation or Mulcahy salvage of infected three-piece inflatable penile prostheses (IPPs). Antibiotic usage was recorded at implantation, admission for infection, and explantation or salvage surgery. Cultures were obtained from purulent material in the implant space and from the biofilm on the device.Main Outcome MeasuresIntraoperative culture data from infected IPPs.ResultsTwo hundred twenty-seven intraoperative cultures (2002–2016) were obtained at salvage or explantation. No culture growth occurred in 33% of cases and gram-positive and gram-negative organisms were found in 73% and 39% of positive cultures, respectively. Candida species (11.1%), anaerobes (10.5%) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (9.2%) constituted nearly one third of 153 positive cultures. Multi-organism infections occurred in 25% of positive cultures. Antibiotic regimens at initial implantation were generally consistent with American Urological Association (AUA) and European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines. However, the micro-organisms identified in this study were covered by these guidelines in only 62% to 86% of cases. Antibiotic selection at admissions for infection and salvage or explantation varied widely compared with those at IPP implantation.ConclusionThis study documents a high incidence of anaerobic, Candida, and methicillin-resistant S aureus infections. In addition, approximately one third of infected penile prosthesis cases had negative cultures. Micro-organisms identified in this study were not covered by the AUA and EAU antibiotic guidelines in at least 14% to 38% of cases. These findings suggest broadening antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines and creating a management algorithm for IPP infections might lower infection rates and improve salvage success.Gross MS, Phillips EA, Carrasquillo RJ, et al. Multicenter Investigation of the Micro-Organisms Involved in Penile Prosthesis Infection: An Analysis of the Efficacy of the AUA and EAU Guidelines for Penile Prosthesis Prophylaxis. J Sex Med 2017;14:455–463.     

Effect of Penile Traction and Vacuum Erectile Device for Peyronie’s Disease in an Animal Model

BackgroundPenile traction therapy with the use of a traction device (TD) or vacuum erectile device (VED) has been studied as local modalities for Peyronie’s disease (PD).AimTo identify changes of penile curvature, erectile function, and possible cellular and molecular mechanisms between the TD and VED in a rat model of PD.MethodsPeyronie’s plaque was induced in 30 adult male rats. Then, rats were randomly divided into control (PD without treatment), VED, and TD groups. In the VED group, vacuum pressure was applied to the cylinder to induce penile engorgement inside the cylinder for 1 minute. The penis was allowed to deflate completely for another 1 minute. This was repeated for five cycles (inflate and deflate). In the TD group, the rat penis was straightened by a suspended tension gauge at the same tension by clamping the prepuce. This was performed three times per day at 20 minutes per session, with 5-minute intervals between sessions. The entire treatment duration was 4 weeks.OutcomesPenile curvature, intracavernosal pressure, and mean arterial pressure were measured. Immunohistochemistry for α-smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor-β1 and mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2/3 were performed.ResultsThe TD and VED groups had less penile curvature compared with the control group (15.3 ± 5.3° for TD, 28.4 ± 6.8° for VED, 38.6 ± 10.5° for control; P < .001 for TD vs control, P < .05 for VED vs control). The TD group also had less penile curvature compared with the VED group (P < .05). The VED group had a higher ratio of intracavernosal pressure to mean arterial pressure compared with the two other groups (0.56 ± 0.10 for VED, 0.38 ± 0.06 for TD, 0.32 ± 0.07 for control; P < .001). The immunohistochemistry results showed the VED group had more preserved α-smooth muscle actin with less transforming growth factor-β1 and mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2/3 than the TD and control groups in the corpus cavernosa.Clinical TranslationVarious benefits can be observed with the TD and VED for the treatment of PD.Strengths and LimitationsThis study explored the mechanism and benefits of TD and VED therapies for the treatment of PD. The rat model might not represent the human condition.ConclusionPenile traction therapy with the TD or VED is beneficial to decrease penile curvature in animal models of PD. The underlying mechanism could be related to antiapoptosis, antifibrosis, and smooth muscle preservation.Lin H, Liu C, Wang R. Effect of Penile Traction and Vacuum Erectile Device for Peyronie’s Disease in an Animal Model. J Sex Med 2017;14:1270–1276.     

Augmentation Phalloplasty for Acquired Penile Shortening: A Systematic Review of Techniques,Outcomes, Patient Satisfaction,and Limitations

IntroductionAlthough an infrequent cause of small penile size in adult men, acquired penile shortening represents a particular reconstructive challenge due to preexisting penile anatomic deformities.AimWith numerous techniques being performed, the purpose of our study is to assess available literature on length enhancement procedures used for acquired penile shortening deformities.MethodsA systematic review was performed using the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Databases were used to identify papers on augmentation Phalloplasty in non-transgender males with acquired penile shortening from 1990 to 2018.Main Outcome MeasureOutcomes, complications, and patient-reported satisfaction were analyzed.Results12 articles, involving 931 patients and 8 primary procedures, met our inclusion criteria. The majority of articles had level of evidence of 4 (83%) and Newcastle Ottawa Scale score of 6 (92%, moderate risk of bias). All studies reported mean penile length gain; however, inconsistent methodology was used when measuring penile dimensions. Mean length gain ranged from 0.6 to 6.4 cm. Overall, the mean complication rate for all techniques ranged from 0% to 50%. Post-operative satisfaction was reported in 10 (83%) studies, 7 of which used a validated scale. Patients were generally satisfied, with reported satisfaction rates ranging from 77% to 100%.Clinical ImplicationsWhile numerous procedures have been described, the significant limitations in the available data preclude identifying a single superior procedure.Strengths & LimitationsThe significant heterogeneity in the reported literature is a limitation of this study and highlights the need for standardized reporting. However, this study is the first to analyze augmentation phalloplasty literature in the setting of acquired penile shortening.ConclusionAugmentation phalloplasty techniques for acquired penile shortening are evolving and are continuously being modified; best-practice guidelines are crucial to achieve safe and satisfactory outcomes in this population.Abu-Ghname A, Banuelos J, Davis MJ, et al. Augmentation Phalloplasty for Acquired Penile Shortening: A Systematic Review of Techniques, Outcomes, Patient Satisfaction, and Limitations. J Sex Med 2020;17:331–341.     

The Multiple-Slit Technique (MUST) for Penile Length and Girth Restoration

Background

Patients with severe erectile dysfunction (ED) and penile size issues, especially seen in Peyronie's disease (PD), are candidates for more invasive penile prosthesis insertion techniques that aim for penile length and girth reconstruction.

Surgical Correction of Persistent Peyronie's Disease Following Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum Treatment

IntroductionCollagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) is an Food and Drug Administration‐approved intralesional injection for treatment of Peyronie's disease (PD) that has been shown to reduce penile curvature deformity and PD symptom bother in phase 2b and phase 3 placebo‐controlled clinical trials. For some patients, nonsurgical treatment with CCH may not sufficiently improve penile curvature, and surgical correction may be pursued following CCH therapy.AimThis study aims to examine intraoperative and postsurgical outcomes of surgical correction of persistent penile curvature in patients with PD who had previously received CCH.MethodsRetrospective chart review was used to identify patients with PD who had received CCH intralesional injection within either the phase 2b or phase 3 CCH clinical trials and then underwent surgical correction due to remaining penile curvature. Surgical techniques used were partial plaque excision and grafting (PEG) and/or tunica albuginea plication (TAP).Main Outcome MeasuresPrimary assessments included pre‐ and postsurgery penile curvature, erectile rigidity, stretched penile length, intraoperative time, and occurrence of adverse events.ResultsSeven men were identified who underwent surgical straightening with TAP or PEG following CCH treatment. Mean number of days from the final CCH injection to surgery was 182 (standard deviation 118; median 127 days). Average penile curvature prior to surgical straightening was 58°. No anatomical difficulties or complications secondary to the effects of prior CCH treatment occurred during surgery. Intraoperative time was representative of standard TAP and PEG surgeries (range 88–146 minutes). All men reported penile curvature <20° postsurgery. One patient experienced a postsurgery subgraft hematoma that required aspiration. There were no postsurgery reports of decreased penile sexual sensation and no occurrence of vascular compromise or decreased penile rigidity.ConclusionThis initial case series supports the hypothesis that prior CCH treatment is not a contraindication to PEG or TAP surgery in the treatment of penile curvature in patients with PD. Levine LA and Larsen SM. Surgical correction of persistent Peyronie's disease following collagenase clostridium histolyticum treatment. J Sex Med 2015;12:259–264.