Buried penis

Buried penis is a congenital anomaly in which the penis is normal in size but appears to be small (i.e., the external genitalia appear small). This anomaly is usually associated with inadequate outer penile skin, fibrosis of the Dartos fascia, inadequate subcutaneous attachment to Buck's fascia, and narrow opening of the prepuce. Various systems have been used to classify this anomaly and its related conditions. Several symptoms such as difficulty maintaining hygiene and holding the penis during voiding, balanitis, urinary tract infection, and embarrassment when naked have been reported. Adults may present with painful erection, sexual embarrassment, and difficulty with vaginal penetration. Several surgical techniques have been developed to correct this anomaly. Most studies have suggested early surgery. Accurately diagnosing the anomaly and avoiding circumcision are crucial in these patients. Copyright (C) 2016, Taiwan Surgical Association. Published by Elsevier Taiwan LLC.