A rite of passage into manhood took the very organ when a 24-year-old South African man suffered a botched traditional circumcision, three years ago. The unidentified patient became part of a study over the past few years with one final goal in mind - bring back full penile function to the young man with the first ever successful penile transplant. For more than nine hours, in what is being called a marathon surgery, South African doctors worked diligently on the transplant surgery. The procedure took place this past December, and doctors have monitored the patient since that time. The patient reported not only does he have full feeling, but functionality as well.
The surgery took place at the Tygerberg Hospital in Cape Town with the assistance from the Unversity of Stellenbosch. The center has witnessed many men dying from botched circumcisions. Many times, men have to endure the tragedy of having their penises amputated, following botched traditional rites.
The urology medical lead, Andre van der Merwe, from the University of Stellenbosch said men who lose their penis early in life can suffer a “deeply traumatic” result. The transplant, said the medical professional, can restore a good life to the young men, especially those who have suffered the loss of their organ “due to complications from traditional circumcision.” The study managed by the University and hospital said nine other patients are awaiting a transplant.
The organ for the successful surgery came from a deceased man who was listed as an organ donor.
There was a slew of individuals involved with the surgery including van der Merwe, Prof. Fran Grawew, Prof. Rafique Moosa, with assistance from nurses, coordinators, anesthetists, a psychologist, and additional members from the medical community.
The surgery is a breakthrough, opening the doors for many men who may suffer from conditions outside botched traditional circumcisions, including cancer and other illnesses.
The need for the risky but successful surgery is a demand in the nation, while doctors do not have exact numbers of men who have suffered penis amputations, they estimate more than 250 amputations take place annually across the country. To read more on this amazing, successful transplant, click here.