Penectomy: A technique to reduce blood loss

Objectives. Hemorrhage is potentially a major complication of partial or total penectomy that may result in the need for blood transfusion. The surgical technique of penectomy was evaluated to determine whether modifications may lead to reduced blood loss. Methods. A simple technique was used to minimize blood loss during penectomy. A Penrose tourniquet was used to minimize subcutaneous bleeding, incised urethral edges were oversewn, and a noncrushing vascular clamp was placed across the corporal bodies before transection. Results. Placement of a noncrushing vascular clamp on the corporal bodies before penectomy greatly reduced blood loss in patients who required either a partial or total penectomy. The procedure was performed in a clear field. Conclusions. By modification of the surgical technique of partial and total penectomy, it is possible to minimize the potential complication of hemorrhage. (C) 1999, Elsevier Science Inc, All rights reserved.