A buried penis is a condition in which a normal sized penis is entrapped partially or completely by the surrounding subcutaneous fat and soft tissues of the scrotum, thighs, or hypogastrium.
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Pathology
Etiology
Congenital
- congenital poor fixation of the penile skin at its base 3
Acquired
- obesity: it's the primary cause of an acquired buried penis 1
- scrotal and suprapubic lymphedema
- scrotal elephantiasis
- balanitis xerotica obliterans 2
- penile trauma (e.g. post-circumcision) 2
- dysgenic dartos 2
Radiographic features
The penis is partially or entirely concealed under excessive scrotal skin or pubic soft tissues.
Treatment and prognosis
Management of a buried penis is based on a surgical treatment associating 1:
- exposure of the penile shaft
- adipose tissue excision
- removal of redundant skin, adhesions, and phimosis
- lipectomy and scrotoplasty
- coverage of the penile shaft with a graft
Complications
- chronic inflammation: moisture and lack of hygiene under the overlying tissue may lead to bacterial and fungal infection
- phimosis and glandular adhesions: due to chronic inflammation
- erectile dysfunction with cavernosal fibrosis 1
- lower urinary tract symptoms
- urinary infections
- depression and low self-esteem
- squamous cell carcinoma of the penis 1
History and etymology
The condition was first reported by Keyes in 1919 3.
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