glansectomy

Glansectomy is a surgical procedure in which the glans penis, the expanded head of the penis, is removed. It can be performed as a partial glansectomy, removing the glans while preserving the penile shaft, or as a total glansectomy, in which the entire glans is excised. The operation is most commonly indicated for penile cancer confined to the glans, with the goal of local tumor control while preserving as much penile length and function as possible. Selected cases of severe chronic infection, recurrent inflammation, or trauma to the glans may also be considered for glansectomy when other treatments have failed or are unsuitable.

Surgical approach and reconstruction vary by case. In partial glansectomy, the remaining penile tissue is typically covered with local skin flaps or grafts to promote healing. If the urethra is involved or to maintain a functional urinary stream, urethral reconstruction or relocation of the urethral opening (meatal revision) may be performed. The overall aim is to achieve clear margins while preserving urinary function and, to the extent possible, sexual sensation.

Outcomes and risks: When appropriately indicated, glansectomy can provide disease control with preservation of much of the shaft. Potential risks include wound infection, bleeding, urethral stricture or fistula, meatal stenosis, sexual or sensory changes, penile curvature, and the need for further reconstructive procedures. Recovery typically involves wound care, catheter management if the urethra is reconstructed, and follow-up surveillance for oncologic or functional issues.

See also: penectomy, partial penectomy, penile cancer, urethroplasty.