Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 11, 2026
Engineered Vascularized Muscle Flap
Published on: January 11, 2016
Vascularized cadaveric fibula flap for treatment of erectile dysfunction following failure of penile implants
Christopher J Salgado1, Harvey Chim, David Rowe
1Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery Holtz Children's Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA. salgado_plastics@hotmail.com
Introduction:
Postpriapism erectile dysfunction in patients with sickle cell disease is a particularly devastating condition. Where penile implants have failed, there is no good surgical alternative at present. Free tissue transfer is fraught with risks in patients with sickle cell disease and are not the best option for treatment.
Aim:
To describe a new surgical technique involving prefabrication of a bone flap for treatment of erectile dysfunction in a patient with sickle cell disease.
Methods:
The descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery was isolated and implanted within a cadaveric bone segment. The prefabricated flap was then transferred 2 months later as a neophallus for penile autoaugmentation.
Results:
Bone scan showed viability of the bone flap after transfer. The patient was able to have vaginal intercourse and successfully achieve orgasm 2 months after the second stage surgery.
Conclusions:
Prefabrication of a cadaveric bone flap and subsequent transfer is a novel and effective technique for treatment of erectile dysfunction refractory to medical management. This technique may be particularly useful for "implant cripples," who have no other surgical option.
