Objectives: To evaluate the outcomes of recurrent urethrocutaneous fistula repair using tunica vaginalis graft as an intermediate protective layer.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the data of 45 children with recurrent urethrocutaneous fistula who underwent tunica vaginalis graft repair between February 2011 and January 2019. The repair was carried out at least 6 months after a previous fistula repair. Follow up at an outpatient clinic was scheduled on a weekly basis for 1 month, then monthly for 6 months and then annually. During follow up, every patient was evaluated by history taking. The site of repair and the act of micturition were inspected. Urine analyses together with culture and sensitivity tests were carried out if required. Successful repair was defined as the absence of recurrence, with good force and caliber of the urinary stream.
Results: This study included 45 patients with recurrent urethrocutaneous fistula who were managed with a tunica vaginalis graft as a second layer. The mean age of patients was 6.7 ± 2.8 years. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 5.5 ± 0.7 days. The repair was successful for 43 (95.6%) patients, and urethrocutaneous fistula recurrence was reported for two (4.4%) patients, which were repaired after 6 months. In all patients, the cosmetic appearance of the penis was satisfactory without torsion or ventral chordee.
Conclusion: Tunica vaginalis graft is a simple and fast procedure that is highly effective as a protective second layer for recurrent urethrocutaneous fistula repair.
Keywords: buccal mucosa graft; hypospadias; tunica vaginalis flap; tunica vaginalis graft; urethrocutanous fistula.
© 2020 The Japanese Urological Association.