Reconstruction of penile skin loss by superficial circumflex iliac perforator (SCIP) pedicled flap after Fournier's gangrene

Abstract

Introduction: Fournier's gangrene is a serious pathology with a high mortality rate. Treatment requires a large debridement of necrotized tissues, conducing to a skin loss, requiring a reconstruction, which may involve different surgical techniques, depending on the context as well as the size and location of the skin loss. The most common covering technique uses split-thickness skin grafting, which however presents a risk of contracture.

Case: Our 63 years old patient presented a Fournier's gangrene, leading to pubic and circular penile skin defects after multiple debridements. We decided to practice a right superficial circumflex iliac perforator (SCIP) pedicled flap to reconstruct the penile skin sheath. The flap was rotated 180 degrees and rolled around the penis.

Discussion: The inguinal pedicle flap is described for penile reconstruction, the SCIP flap for perineal reconstruction, and even bilateral SCIP flaps for performing phalloplasty, but SCIP pedicled flap is not already described for isolated penile skin sheath reconstruction. Skin loss in our patient was not extensive, permitting us to perform this surgical technique. To go further, note the possibility of carrying out this reconstruction by a super-thin SCIP flap, as a pure skin graft flap.

Conclusion: The SCIP pedicled flap seems us to be a safe technique for penile skin reconstruction and a good alternative to the usual skin grafts, especially regarding the lower risk of contracture, and low donor-site morbidity.

Keywords: Fournier's gangrene; Gangrène de Fournier; Lambeau perforant sur l’artère iliaque circonflexe superficielle; Penis; Pénis; Superficial circumflex iliac perforator flap; reconstruction.