Severe diffused glans penis venous malformation: successful management with 'fractional' Long-pulsed Nd: YAG laser therapy.

PURPOSE: To assess the efficacy and safety of 'fractional' long-pulsed Nd:YAG (FLP-Nd:YAG) for the treatment of severe diffused glans penis venous malformations (GPVM).

METHODS: Thirteen patients (Age 1.2-29 years) with diffused GPVM were enrolled in this study from August 2013 to January 2025. Twelve patients except one young male with erectile dysfunction underwent FLP-Nd:YAG laser treatment (there were intervals between circular spots). Outcome was graded using a five-point scale, and complications were documented after each session.

RESULTS: Ten patients reached a 'nearly cured' status, and two patients achieved an 'excellent' outcome. The mean number of sessions was 3.2 (range 2 ∼ 5). Symptoms were significantly alleviated following treatment. The minor complications were blister formation or thin crusting ( = 4), temporary hyperpigmentation ( = 5), superficial scars ( = 2), and mild hypesthesia ( = 1). Major complications included localized tissue depression ( = 1) and long-term fibrous nodules ( = 1). All patients were followed up for 4 to 11 months. Mild recurrence was observed in three cases.

CONCLUSION: FLP-Nd:YAG laser therapy achieved high lesion clearance rates with low incidence of major complications in severe diffused GPVMs. It offered rapid treatment with a noninvasive, bloodless procedure, making it especially suitable for pediatric patients.