The use of parenteral testosterone therapy in genital reconstructive surgery

Previously, testosterone cream has been used for penile enlargement before genital surgery. The results not only were inconsistent but the absorption was variable. Therefore, we elected to study the use of parenteral testosterone as an adjunct before reconstructive surgery. In 44 patients with hypospadias (36), epispadias (5) or urethral fistulas (3) 2 mg. per kg. testosterone enanthate were given intramuscularly 5 and 2 weeks before reconstructive surgery. Testosterone caused a mean increase in penile length of 2.7 cm. and in circumference of 2.3 cm. as well as local vascularity in all patients. In addition to surgical results the potential side effects of testosterone treatment were monitored 3 months to 1 year postoperatively. Basal testosterone levels were obtained in patients before and during therapy, and postoperatively. In addition, side effects, such as increased bone age and excessive pubic hair, were not a problem. The use of preoperative testosterone significantly contributed to the successful reconstruction of these patients, particularly those with a paucity of penile skin and those who had undergone previous repairs. Temporary penile stimulation by testosterone enanthate allows for an earlier penile operation as well as provides negligible side effects.