A simplified preputial covering technique to correct buried penis.

Objective: We report on refinements of a technique for preputial covering to prevent complications of redundant prepuce, possibly caused by inadequate surgery for buried penis.

Methods: From July 2006 to July 2008, 20 consecutive patients (mean age 4.3 years) underwent surgery for buried penis. The surgical techniques consisted of complete unfurling of the penile shaft, fixation of the penile base skin to Buck's fascia and 1 pedicle flap for skin coverage. Our method for preputial covering is novel in that we create a unique 1-flap covering for the ventral skin defect. Patients were monitored postoperatively at 2 weeks, 1 month and 3 months.

Results: All patients had good or excellent outcomes, with fewer postoperative complications. Two patients developed subcutaneous hematomas that resolved in 2 weeks with conservative treatment. The mean increase in length of penile projection after surgery was 1.7 cm, a statistically significant difference. All patients had good cosmetic results, with increased visualization of the penile shaft.

Conclusions: The preputial covering technique we devised avoided postoperative bulky prepuce caused by residual redundant prepuce. Repeat surgery was also unnecessary for our patients. Furthermore, parents judged the cosmetic results as excellent.