[Experimental study of augmentation phalloplasty using tunica vaginalis grafts in bilateral albuginea of penile corpus].

OBJECTIVE: To study the effect and complications of augmentation phalloplasty by implanting autogenous tunica vaginalis grafts into the bilateral albuginea of the penile corpus. METHODS: Five mongrel dogs underwent augmentation phalloplasty with bilateral autogenous tunica vaginalis grafts. The increase in the volume of the corpora cavernosa was achieved by applying autogenous tunica vaginalis grafts to longitudinal openings made bilaterally in the albuginea along the whole length of the penile cavernous corpora. The perimeter of the penile cavernous corpora was measured in the flaccid state and during erection and dynamic infusion cavernosometry (DIC) was conducted for each dog before and after the operation. Histology of the penis was examined using hematoxylin and eosin stains. RESULTS: The average increase in the perimeter of the penile cavernous corpora was 21. 1% in the erectile state but unobvious in the flaccid state 3 months after surgery. There were no statistically significant differences in cavernosometric parameters before and after the operation, and neither were there any other severe postoperative complications. The grafts had mild inflammatory reaction and fibrosis with apparent reformation of the tunica albuginea over the patch site. CONCLUSION: The augmentation phalloplasty technique with bilateral autogenous tunica vaginalis grafts was proved to be effective and reliable with few complications, particularly conspicuous in increasing the volume of the erectile tissues during erection.