Tubularized incised plate urethroplasty with de-epithelialized flap.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Hypospadias repair, particularly tubularized plate urethroplasty, can have variable outcomes.
• Improving cosmetic results and reducing complications like fistula are key goals in hypospadias surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of incorporating a de-epithelialized flap in Snodgrass urethroplasty for hypospadias.
• To assess the impact of this technique on cosmetic outcomes and complication rates.

Main Methods:

• A series of 25 hypospadias cases undergoing Snodgrass urethroplasty with a de-epithelialized flap were analyzed.
• A minimum follow-up period of 1 year was maintained for all patients.

Main Results:

• The procedure resulted in a vertically oriented, slit-like neo-meatus with a cosmetically well-accepted conical glans.
• No cases of residual chordee, penile torsion, or glans dehiscence were observed.
• An 8% complication rate was noted, with two patients developing fistula.

Conclusions:

• A de-epithelialized flap is a straightforward method for augmenting coverage of the neourethra post-Snodgrass urethroplasty.
• This technique successfully achieves non-crossing suture lines and maximizes vascularity for improved healing.