A tubed, free skin graft was used to construct a urethra in 49 young male subjects. Indications included 1) multiple previous hypospadias operations, 2) new severe hypospadias cases, 3) chordee without hypospadias but with a short urethra, 4) epispadias, 5) distal urethral stricture and 6) a small number of patients undergoing an initial operation for hypospadias by the Horton-Devine technique. No fistulas or leaks occurred. The over-all complication rate was low. Based on our own experience and that reported by others we believe that a free tubed graft is an excellent method for making a substitute urethra in a variety of urethral problems in children and young adults. It is important that the graft is of full or nearly full thickness because thin grafts tend to contract.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Hendren et al. (1980) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: