Effect of nitroglycerin ointment on penile skin flap survival in hypospadias repair. Experimental and clinical studies.

The mobilization of penile neurovascular skin flaps is associated with vasospasm, which may result in ischemic necrosis. A prospective clinical trial of nitroglycerin was performed in 40 children undergoing hypospadias repair. Quantitative fluorescein studies were performed in another group of patients who underwent circumcision. These studies represent the first clinical application of nitroglycerin ointment in human subjects. Our preliminary data suggest that nitroglycerin ointment can enhance survival of skin flaps.