Repair of traumatic corporeal tear(s)
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Repair of Traumatic Corporeal Tear(s)
Common Name: Corporeal Tear Repair
Technical Terms: Corporeal body laceration repair
Summary
The repair of traumatic corporeal tears is a surgical procedure to mend tears or lacerations in the corpora cavernosa, the sponge-like regions of tissue within the penis that fill with blood during an erection. The procedure is essential in restoring normal penile function and structure following an injury.
Purpose
The procedure addresses injuries to the penile tissue, specifically the corpora cavernosa, usually caused by trauma. The goals are to restore proper penile function, prevent complications like erectile dysfunction or penile curvature, and improve the patient’s overall quality of life.
Indications
- Acute trauma or injury to the penis.
- Presence of a palpable hematoma or abnormal penile shape following trauma.
- Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection post-injury.
- Signs of bleeding in the penile region.
Preparation
- Patients may be instructed to fast for several hours before the procedure.
- Medication adjustments, particularly if the patient is on blood thinners.
- Pre-operative diagnostic tests including ultrasound or MRI to assess the extent of the injury.
- A thorough medical history and physical examination.
Procedure Description
- Anesthesia: The patient is given either general anesthesia or regional anesthesia (such as a spinal block) to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free.
- Incision: A small incision is made over the site of the tear.
- Repair: The surgeon identifies and sutures the tear in the corpora cavernosa using fine surgical sutures.
- Hemostasis: Ensuring no active bleeding is present and checking the repaired area for stability.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures and a sterile dressing is applied.
Tools used may include scalpels, sutures, and specialized surgical instruments for handling delicate tissue.
Duration
The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the extent of the injury.
Setting
Hospital operating room or surgical center.
Personnel
- Surgeon (typically a urologist)
- Surgical nurse
- Anesthesiologist
Risks and Complications
- Infection at the surgical site.
- Bleeding or hematoma formation.
- Erectile dysfunction.
- Penile curvature or deformity.
- Anesthesia-related risks.
Benefits
- Restoration of normal penile structure and function.
- Prevention of chronic erectile dysfunction and other complications.
- Improved quality of life and sexual health.
Recovery
- Patients may need to stay in the hospital for a short period post-surgery.
- Pain management with prescribed medication.
- Avoidance of sexual activity and strenuous exercise for several weeks.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and function.
- Gradual return to normal activities as advised by the surgeon.
Alternatives
- Conservative management for minor tears, such as rest and observation.
- Medication to manage pain and inflammation.
- For less severe injuries, non-surgical therapies like compression bandages.
Pros and Cons of Alternatives:
- Conservative management avoids surgical risks but may be less effective for severe tears.
- Medications can manage symptoms but do not repair the tear.
- Non-surgical therapies might be less invasive but may not fully address the injury.
Patient Experience
- During the procedure: The patient will be under anesthesia and should not feel pain.
- After the procedure: There may be discomfort, which can be managed with pain medications.
- Recovery involves rest and avoidance of activities that might stress the repair site.
- Follow-up visits are necessary to ensure proper healing and function.