Scrotal Flap Epilation in Urethroplasty: Concepts and Technique

Abstract

The good results permitted the conversion of predetermined scrotal zones into wide areas of alopecia to be used as excellent skin flaps in complex urethral stenosis surgery in postpubertal male patients.

Urethroscopic holmium:YAG laser epilation of urethral diverticular hair follicles following hypospadias repair

“…Fortunately, the incidence of hair-bearing urethra following urethroplasty is decreasing due to prevention strategies. Several methods have been used to prevent the growth of urethral hair, including avoidance of the use of hair-bearing skin [4], the use of depilating agents [5] and the use of thermocoagulation procedures preoperatively [6].…”

Effect of Thioglycolic Acid Instillation to Stop Hair Growth on the Urethral Mucosa after Urethroplasty with Hairy Skin in a Rat Model

“…Intensive hair growth in the new urethra may lead to obstruction of urine flow and development of calcifications on the hair, leading to an increase in bacterial colonization, development of hard to treat recurrent urinary system infections, and urethral stones [7] . Simple preoperative shaving [7] , superficial local radiotherapy, external or direct electrolysis of the hair roots [8] , and photocoagulation of the hair roots with a Nd:YAG surgical laser [9] are all methods that have been described to prevent this occurrence.…”

Total anterior urethral reconstruction with the `BAES flap' in a spinal cord-injured patient

“…In our opinion the poor tolerance to urine generally attributed to scrotal skin is due to a defective epilation technique which permits regrowth of numerous hairs producing accumulations, obstruction and persistent urinary infection, which in turn provokes folliculitis and chronic dermatitis in the poorly epilated neourethra. 2 The BAES¯ap, thanks to its excellent vascularization and a permanently epilated skin, has permitted successful resolution of complex urethral pathologies, regardless of their extension, location and aetiology. …”