The management of genital lymphoedema

OBJECTIVES To report our experience and management of genital lymphoedema, as this condition can be extremely debilitating and difficult to manage. PATIENTS AND METHODS The clinical records of 90 patients with genital lymphoedema who presented between 1998 and 2007 were retrospectively reviewed. The surgical management of 34 patients consisted of the excision of the affected skin and of the subcutaneous layers. This involved scrotal excision in 15 patients with primary closure. Skin grafts were required in seven patients for penile shaft cover. The results for cosmesis, recovery of sexual function, patient’s satisfaction and complications are discussed. RESULTS In all, 56 patients were successfully managed conservatively by treating the underlying condition, antibiotic administration, compression and elevation of the genitalia. The remaining 34 patients required surgical management with an overall excellent cosmetic result and a significant improvement in sexual function. CONCLUSIONS When surgery is necessary for genital lymphoedema, the new techniques described provide excellent cosmetic and functional results.