[Complications of one-stage urethroplasties]

Different techniques applied for one-stage urethroplasty were compared with reference to complications. We followed up 48 patients operated on for bulbous or penile strictures caused by inflammation or by urethral irritation following endoscopic manipulation or catheterization. The techniques compared were end-to-end anastomosis, pedicled scrotal skin patch, penile/preputial island flap, free penile skin, free full-thickness skin patch. With pedicled scrotal skin patches there was a 60% complication rate, while after penile island flap technique complications occurred only in 13%. Scrotal skin should no longer be used for urethroplasties if penile skin is available.