02-07-2025
Surgeons rebuild man's penis in rare, 9.5 hour operation
Nagpur: In a rare medical feat, surgeons at Lata Mangeshkar Hospital successfully rebuilt the penis of a young man from Rajasthan, who lost the organ to cancer eight years ago. The complex operation, lasting 9.5 hours, is believed to be the first of its kind performed in a single stage in Central India.
"The patient was living without a penis for several years. Reconstructing the organ restored not just physical function but also his confidence and dignity," said Dr Jitendra Mehta, one of the lead plastic surgeons on the case. To reconstruct the penis, doctors first created the shape of the shaft and urinary passage (urethra) using tissue from the patient's forearm. This tissue was then surgically transplanted to the groin area.
Crucially, the surgical team connected tiny blood vessels under a microscope — a procedure known as microvascular surgery — to ensure proper blood supply. Nerves were also attached to help restore sensation. "Such surgeries demand immense precision. We work under a microscope to join vessels thinner than a matchstick," explained Dr Sameer Mahakalkar, another plastic surgeon involved. "It's meticulous work, but it gives patients a chance to lead a normal life.
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While this operation was performed due to cancer-related loss, similar techniques can help men injured in accidents or those undergoing gender-affirmation surgery. Dr Sajal Mitra, dean of NKP Salve Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, praised the surgical team's dedication. "This is not just a surgical success — it's a step forward for reconstructive medicine in our region. Such cases remind us why training, teamwork, and technology are so vital.
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The surgical team included Dr Mehta, Dr Mahakalkar, Dr Ashwini Panditrao, Dr Dev Patel, Dr Abhiram Mundle, Dr Kanwarbir, and Dr Pallavi. Anaesthesia support was provided by Dr Anjali Bhure, Dr Madhushree Shah, Dr Ketaki Marodkar, and Dr Rachana Naitam. Dr Nitin Deosthale, medical superintendent and vice dean, coordinated logistics. Hospital officials confirmed the patient is recovering well and will soon be able to pass urine normally through the reconstructed organ.
Such procedures are performed free of cost under govt health schemes like Ayushman Bharat and Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Aarogya Yojana, helping patients who might otherwise be unable to afford advanced surgeries. "This is a life-changing operation," said Dr Mehta. "It's about restoring hope."
Recreating Manhood
*Tissue Taken from Forearm: Doctors shaped skin and tissue from the patient's forearm to build new penis
*Urethra Created Inside: Tube to pass urine (urethra) was crafted inside reconstructed organ
*Transplanted to Groin Area: New organ carefully attached to groin region
*Tiny Blood Vessels Joined: Surgeons used microscope to connect small blood vessels for blood supply
*Nerves Connected for Sensation: Nerves were joined to help restore feeling and function in the new organ
