Is the Free Sensate Deltoid Flap a Good Choice for Phalloplasty?

The authors presented their surgical results with the use of the free sensate deltoid flap for phalloplast, which, they believe, answers many cosmetic and functional (e.g., sexual intercourse and voiding) requirements.

Thirteen biologically male patients with total penile losses from a variety of causes and seven female-to-male transsexuals were treated with the free sensate deltoid flaps. The ages of the patients ranged between 23 and 54 years (mean: 35.7 years). The average follow-up period was 13 to 244 months (mean: 89.4 months). Details of the long-term follow-up cases involved analysis of medical records and questionnaires about the patients' quality of life.

Six cases had microsurgical problems as early complications; three of these cases had partial or total flap necrosis that required another free flap. According to the questionnaire most, of the patients were satisfied with their quality of life.

The free sensate deltoid flap for phalloplasty provides the cosmetic and functional requirements that an ideal penis should have. These authors believe this technique should be considered a good alternative in penile reconstruction/construction. They presented the advantages, technical features, and pitfalls of the technique.