Genital Lymphoedema: Surgical Reconstruction and Outcomes | Dr. Daniel Gould

Dr. Daniel Gould co-authored this research published in Wounds International, examining the surgical treatment and reconstruction of penile and scrotal lymphoedema.

Genital lymphoedema can develop when normal lymphatic drainage is disrupted, resulting in progressive swelling of the penile, scrotal, or surrounding tissues. Potential causes include lymph node dissection, radiation therapy, obesity, and other conditions affecting the lymphatic system.

The researchers retrospectively reviewed 12 patients who underwent surgical treatment for penoscrotal lymphoedema. Presentations varied between patients and included combined penile and scrotal swelling, isolated scrotal or penile swelling, and involvement of the suprapubic region.

Surgical treatment was tailored to the anatomy and extent of each patient's condition. Procedures included combined penoplasty and scrotoplasty, isolated scrotoplasty, and isolated penoplasty, with the goal of removing affected tissue and restoring both function and appearance.

The study also evaluated postoperative outcomes and recurrence. Four of the 12 patients experienced recurrent lymphoedema, while three required additional surgery, illustrating the complexity of treating advanced genital lymphatic disease.

The research highlights the role of reconstructive surgery in managing genital lymphoedema while emphasizing that these patients can require multidisciplinary care to address the functional, urologic, and reconstructive challenges associated with the condition.