Lymphedema of the external genitalia: Experience of the Conakry University Hospital

Abstract

Objective: This study was carried out to evaluate the management of lymphedema of the external genitalia at the department of general surgery, National Hospital Ignace Deen, Conakry, Republic of Guinea. Patients and Methods: In a retrospective study covering a period of 10 years, the files of all patients treated for genital lymphedema at the Ignace Deen Hospital were reviewed. The patient group consisted of 4 male patients and one female patient with a mean age of 46 years (range: 30 – 71 years). The four male patients had penoscrotal lymphedema with concealment of the penis, while in the only female patient the right labium major and the buttock were affected. No microfilaria could be detected in any of the cases. All patients were subjected to resection of the lymphedematous tissue and reconstructive surgery. Results: In three patients convalescence took 21 days and the postoperative period was uneventful. The two remaining patients developed scrotal suppuration and recovered after 60 days. After two years of follow-up, good cosmetic and functional results could be reported in four patients. Conclusion: Surgery consisting of total excision of the lymphedematous tissue followed by reconstructive surgery remains the only effective method of treatment. It usually yields good cosmetic and functional results and minimizes the recurrence rate.

African Journal of Urology Vol. 12 (4) 2006: pp.209-213