Anatomic Basis for Penis Transplantation: Cadaveric Microdissection of Penile Structures

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Transplant Surgery
• Anatomy

Background:

• Penile transplantation is a complex reconstructive procedure.
• Detailed understanding of penile vascular and nerve anatomy is crucial for successful allograft.
• Cadaveric studies provide essential anatomical data for surgical planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the anatomic feasibility of penile transplantation through cadaveric dissection.
• To detail the anatomy of dorsal neurovascular structures of the penis.
• To develop an algorithm for penile allograft harvest based on defect type.

Main Methods:

• Seventeen male cadavers were dissected.
• Detailed analysis of dorsal arteries, superficial and deep dorsal veins, and dorsal nerves.
• Measurement of vessel diameters and observation of branching patterns.

Main Results:

• Dorsal artery diameter significantly decreased distally, with observed side dominance.
• The deep dorsal vein maintained a straighter course with less diameter reduction than the artery.
• Dorsal nerves exhibited proximal branching patterns.

Conclusions:

• The study provides critical anatomical data for penile transplantation.
• An algorithm for harvest level determination (partial vs. total allograft) was designed.
• Techniques for harvesting partial and total penile transplants were described, enhancing surgical planning.