[Urethroplasty using a free dermo-epidermal of preputial mesh graft: Meshgraft urethroplasty]

Long urethral strictures raise serious problems in terms of appropriate treatment. Reconstruction techniques using scrotal skin have a high recurrence rate. In order to avoid complications, a dermoepidermal or preputial Meshgraft was used to reconstruct a new urethra in two stages. In the first stage, the graft was raised and transplanted onto the open urethra. 8 to 12 weeks later, in the second stage, the new urethra is closed. Since 1977, Meshgraft urethroplasty has been performed in 128 patients, using the skin of the foreskin (n = 75) or medial surface of the thigh (n = 53). A good anatomical and functional result was obtained in all but three cases, regardless of the graft donor site. This operative technique constitutes a very effective method for the lasting treatment of long or complicated urethral strictures, for example in patients with spinal cord injuries.