Use of “Off the Shelf” Extracellular Matrix Graft Materials for Repair of Testicular Rupture: A Novel Technique

Abstract

To describe a new technique for repairing traumatic testicular ruptures using readily available graft material. Surgical management of testicular rupture is often associated with loss of testicular parenchyma because of tissue debridement and concerns of pressure-related ischemia. We present our experience with 3 cases using a novel technique using extracellular matrix graft materials for the reconstruction of tunica albuginea in patients with testicular rupture. We describe a case using bovine pericardium (Neovasc Inc, Richmond, British Columbia) and 2 cases using cadaveric dermis (Coloplast Inc, Minneapolis, MN) to repair complex testicular defects without debridement of extruded testicular parenchyma. No postoperative complications occurred in any of the patients. Long-term follow-up at 18 months for one patient revealed good cosmetic results, with radiographic findings confirming testicular integrity and flow. The use of graft material in the repair of testicular rupture helps prevent the loss of testicular parenchyma through a tension-free closure leading to excellent cosmetic and radiographic outcomes.