The SAPOC technique: A novel approach utilizing multiple slices around point of maximal curvature for the correction of penile curvature at the time of penile prosthesis placement in patients with severe Peyronie's Disease

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Placement of an inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) is indicated for patients with severe Peyronie's disease (PD) and erectile dysfunction (ED) that do not respond to medications. When utilizing plaque incision and graft placement, most surgeons perform an incision at the point of maximal curvature. In most cases of severe PD, this incision results in a large defect that requires placement of a large graft while postoperative penile shortening remains a concern among patients. Objective To present a novel technique for the treatment of severe PD and ED during IPP implantation, in which multiple relaxing incisions are made around the point of maximal curvature. This technique minimizes the size or even the need of a graft and maximizes length restoration. Methods A total of 35 patients with PD and severe ED underwent IPP placement with penoplasty by a single surgeon from October 2018 to March 2021. 27 of these patients underwent the SAPOC technique at the time of IPP placement through a non-degloving approach. This technique involves elevation of the neurovascular bundle for dorsal or lateral curvatures along with elevation of the urethra for ventral curvatures. After the point of maximal curvature is identified, 2 to 4 transverse relaxing incisions (slices) are made around the point of curvature approximately 1 to 1.5cm apart in order to minimize the size of the defect, and hence the size of the graft, while allowing for maximal restoration of length. Primary outcome measurements included straightening rates, patient satisfaction, change in penile length, immediate and late complications. Results The SAPOC technique was applied to 27 patients. Mean patient age was 58.2. Mean preoperative curvature was 71.9 degrees. Mean pre-operative stretched penile length at the time of surgery was 14.18 cm. Mean increase in erect penile length after IPP with SAPOC technique was 0.94 cm (p=0.006) (range 0 to 2.5 cm). A total of 12 patients (44.4%) did not require graft placement. After a mean follow-up of 13.5 months, 23 of 27 (85.2%) patients had a totally straight penis. 4 patients (14.8%) had less than 20 degrees residual curvature which was sufficient for penetrative intercourse. 26 patients (96.2%) were satisfied with their postoperative result. Complications included delayed ejaculation (n=4, 11%, all of which resolved within 12 months), device malfunction (n=1) after 2 years of initial surgery which was revised successfully, device infection at 6 weeks (n=1) and intractable pain 2 years after implantation (n=1), both of which required removal of the prosthesis. Conclusion The SAPOC technique at the time of IPP placement is a novel, safe and feasible technique for the management of complex Peyronie's disease and erectile dysfunction. This technique allows the surgeon to complete the procedure without graft placement in some occasions which theoretically will decrease operative time. It also provides for length restoration which will increase patient satisfaction. Disclosure Work supported by industry: no. A consultant, employee (part time or full time) or shareholder is among the authors (Consultant for Coloplast and Boston Scientific).