Strategies for innervation of the neophallus

A fundamental goal of phalloplasty includes the construction of a sensate neophallus. Both tactile and erogenous sensation are important for protective sensation (including retention of implantable penile prosthesis) as well as sexual satisfaction. This article will describe the sensory innervation of flaps commonly used for phalloplasty including the radial forearm flap, anterolateral thigh flap, and musculocutaneous latissimus dorsi flap. The sensory innervation of the perineum and external genitalia will be reviewed as a basis for selecting recipient nerves. Additionally, surgical techniques, such as neurorrhaphy, will be discussed. Finally, outcome data, although limited, will be assessed

Gender confirmation surgery : guiding principles

Background At this time, no formal training or educational programs exist for surgeons or surgery residents interested in performing gender confirmation surgeries. Aim To propose guiding principles designed to aid with the development of formal surgical training programs focused on gender confirmation surgery. Methods We use expert opinion to provide a \u201cfirst of its kind\u201d framework for training surgeons to care for transgender and gender nonconforming individuals. Outcomes We describe a multidisciplinary treatment model that describes an educational philosophy and the institution of quality parameters. Results This article represents the first step in the development of a structured educational program for surgical training in gender confirmation procedures. Clinical Implications The World Professional Association for Transgender Health Board of Directors unanimously approved this article as the framework for surgical training. Strengths and Limitations This article builds a framework for surgical training. It is designed to provide concepts that will likely be modified over time and based on additional data and evidence gathered through outcome measurements. Conclusion We present an initial step in the formation of educational and technical guidelines for training surgeons in gender confirmation procedures. Schechter LS, D'Arpa S, Cohen MN, et al. Gender Confirmation Surgery: Guiding Principles. J Sex Med 2017;14:852\u2013856

A narrative review of outcomes following metoidioplasty: complications and satisfaction

Metoidioplasty consists of lengthening and straightening the hormonally hypertrophied clitoris. The goals of the procedure include masculinizing the external genitalia and enabling standing micturition. Metoidioplasty may be performed as a stand-alone procedure or an interval procedure prior to phalloplasty. While most often performed with urethral lengthening, metoidioplasty may also be performed as a “simple release” (i.e., without urethral lengthening). Secondary procedures typically include scrotoplasty and placement of testicular implants. While satisfaction with this procedure is high, complications can occur. Complications are commonly categorized as either urologic (i.e., strictures and fistula) or wound healing (i.e., wound disruption, infection, bleeding, etc.). This narrative review discusses postoperative outcomes, including both satisfaction and complications. Published data on complications include fistula and stricture rates from 0%-50% and 0%-63%, respectively. Overall satisfaction with appearance ranges from 48%-100%, and patient ability to void while standing ranges from 67%-100%. Metoidioplasty is a safe and effective procedure for transgender men. Further research regarding surgical techniques and outcomes will help reduce complications and improve overall patient satisfaction

Vaginal Canal Reconstruction in Penile Inversion Vaginoplasty with Flaps, Peritoneum, or Skin Grafts: Where Is the Evidence?

BACKGROUND: To optimize neovaginal dimensions, several modifications of the traditional penile inversion vaginoplasty are described. Options for neovaginal lining include skin grafts, scrotal flaps, urethral flaps, and peritoneum. Implications of these techniques on outcomes remain limited. METHODS: A systematic review of recent literature was performed to assess evidence on various vaginal lining options as adjunct techniques in penile inversion vaginoplasty. Study characteristics, neovaginal depth, donor-site morbidity, lubrication, and complications were analyzed in conjunction with expert opinion. RESULTS: Eight case series and one cohort study representing 1622 patients used additional skin grafts when performing penile inversion vaginoplasty. Neovaginal stenosis ranged from 1.2 to 12 percent, and neovaginal necrosis ranged from 0 to 22.8 percent. Patient satisfaction with lubrication was low in select studies. Three studies used scrotal flaps to line the posterior vaginal canal. Average neovaginal depth was 12 cm in one study, and neovaginal stenosis ranged from 0 to 6.3 percent. In one study of 24 patients, urethral flaps were used to line the neovagina. Neovaginal depth was 11 cm and complication rates were comparable to other series. Two studies used robotically assisted peritoneal flaps with or without skin grafts in 49 patients. Average neovaginal depth was approximately 14 cm, and complication rates were low. CONCLUSIONS: Skin grafts, scrotal flaps, urethral flaps, and peritoneal flaps may be used to augment neovaginal canal dimensions with minimal donor-site morbidity. Further direct comparative data on complications, neovaginal depth, and lubrication are needed to assess indications in addition to advantages and disadvantages of the various lining options