Use of "off the shelf" extracellular matrix graft materials for repair of testicular rupture: a novel technique

Abstract

Objective: To describe a new technique for repairing traumatic testicular ruptures using readily available graft material.

Materials and methods: 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.

Results: 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.

Conclusion: 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.