Complete Penile Disassembly for Epispadias Repair: The Mitchell Technique

Abstract

Purpose We report a new technique for epispadias repair, which relies on the unique blood supply of the corpus cavernosum and glans. The epispadiac phallus is completely disassembled into 3 discrete components: the urethral plate, and the right and left hemicorporeal glandular bodies. Materials and Methods Ten boys 10 months to 17 years old presented for repair of epispadias between 1990 and 1994 (6 primary and 4 secondary repair). One patient underwent bladder exstrophy closure at the time of epispadias surgery. Two patients underwent prior para-exstrophy flap procedures and neither had fistulas. Results Followup (8 to 57 months) revealed a conical glans in 8 patients, straight shaft upward in 1 and ventral orthotopic meatus in 7. In 2 patients who underwent secondary repair 3 fistulas formed that were repaired on an outpatient basis. All patients are potent. Conclusions Complete disassembly allows tubularization and ventralization of the entire distal urethra; makes glans and urethral repair independent; separates the 2 corporeal glandular bodies, permitting easier and more complete release of the rotation contributing to dorsal chordee, and improves exposure for corporotomy or dermal grafts.