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An Evaluation of Morbidity and Mortality in Patients Who Undergo Buried Penis Repair Surgery
Patrick Kennedy BS, Jarred Bratley MD, Roman Skoracki MD
The Ohio State University College of Medicine
2025-01-10
Presenter: Patrick Kennedy
Affidavit:
I certify that the material proposed for presentation in this abstract has not been published in any scientific journal or previously presented at a major meeting.
Director Name: Amy M. Moore
Author Category: Medical Student
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: General Reconstruction
Background:
Adult acquired buried penis (AABP) is a normal sized phallus surrounded by excess abdominopelvic tissue causing reduction of functional length and resulting in dissatisfaction, sexual dysfunction, issues with micturition, infection, dehiscence, and depression. AABP is commonly caused by obesity; however, other causes include trauma, penoscrotal lymphedema, and circumcision complications. Surgical management offers symptomatic relief but carries significant risks, especially in obese patients with comorbidities. Limited data exist on postoperative morbidity and mortality in this population.
Objective:
Evaluate demographics, comorbidities, etiologies, surgical techniques, and outcomes in patients undergoing buried penis repair, with a focus on morbidity and mortality, to inform clinical decision-making and improve patient care.
Methods:
A retrospective review of 38 patients undergoing AABP repair from 2013–2023 was conducted. Demographics, comorbidities, surgical interventions, and outcomes were analyzed.
Results:
Patients had a mean age of 53.8 years and a mean BMI of 43.8. Obesity (65.8%) and penoscrotal lymphedema (21.1%) were the most common etiologies. Comorbidities included diabetes (65.8%), hypertension (73.7%), and hyperlipidemia (68.4%). Common procedures were buried penis repair (78.9%) and escutcheonectomy (63.2%). Postoperative complications included surgical site infections (31.6%) and wound dehiscence (23.7%). Postoperative hospital readmission occurred in 26.8%, and 34.2% experienced recurrence of AABP. Functional improvements included standing urination (55.3%) and penetrative intercourse (36.8%).
Conclusion:
AABP repair surgery improves symptoms of some in some patients but has high complication and recurrence rates in others, particularly in patients with obesity and comorbidities. These findings emphasize the need for careful risk assessment and postoperative management to optimize postoperative outcomes.
