Iatrogenic penile amputation ananatomy lesson

Abstract

A case report is presented of a young male patient seen at the University Teaching Hospital Lusaka Zambia with a right scrotal mass. During orchidectomy which was performed through a low inguinal incision iatrogenic complete penile amputation occurred. Subsequent direct replantation was done without microsurgical repair. The excellent outcome achieved with complete sexual function but no sensory or skin loss leads the authors to a discussion on the blood supply to the penis and the possible clinical significance in the management of penile disease. It is well known that the blood supply to the skin of the penis is from the superficial external pudendal artery and distinct from the dorsal artery to the penis which supplies the erectile cylinders. The dorsal artery to the penis is considered an end artery. The case report suggests good anastomosis between these two arteries probably through the prepuce. Microsurgical vascular repair services are not readily available in many parts of the developing world.