Surgical Management of Penile Lesions Secondary to Foreign Body Reaction: A Case Report and Systematic Review

Abstract

Background

To improve the penile contour, some men choose to undergo implantation or injection of nonbiological materials. Foreign body reactions in penile tissue may produce scarring, deformity, ulceration, necrosis, and even gangrene. Consensus is lacking regarding the most effective surgical procedure for reconstruction of these penile lesions.

Objectives

The authors describe one case study and the first systematic review focusing on reconstructive surgical management for penile lesions secondary to foreign body reaction.

Methods

PubMed, Medline, and Cochrane databases were queried for publications written in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish from 1951 to May 2017. Multiple search terms were applied.

Results

Of the 3304 articles identified, 51 were included in the systematic review. All were retrospective studies, case series, or case reports. A total of 260 patients underwent surgical procedures, and the complication rate was 37.3%. The scrotal flap technique was performed most frequently (43.4%) and resulted in 65.6% of the total complications observed. One Brazilian case study was also described with an extensive and circumferential ulcer after six mineral oil bolls implant in the penile subcutaneous tissue.

Conclusions

Restoration of the penile shape preserving the functionality and maintaining a good physician-patient relationship may be a challenge. The scrotal pouch may be advantageous for patch grafting of penile soft-tissue lesions, owing to its skin laxity and good blood supply. A less aggressive surgical approach has the benefits of shorter healing time and fewer early complications. Penile injuries are best treated by experienced surgeons on a case-by-case basis with care given to identify the most appropriate treatment.

Level of Evidence: 5