Johns Hopkins plans first U.S. penis transplant for wounded vet

BALTIMORE, Md. (WPVI) -- Johns Hopkins Medical Center, which has been on the forefront of transplants, is planning a dramatic new one - the first penis transplant in the United States.

The goal is to help some of the 1300 veterans wounded in the genital area during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Most were wounded by roadside bombs, better known as I.E.D.s, improvised explosive devices.

Most of those wounded are under the age of 35.

The Hopkins team plans to do the first transplant within the next year, possibly in the near future.

Only a few penis transplants are on medical records, including a successful one last year in South Africa.

One reported in China was unsuccessful.

A team of 25 to 30 will be needed for the transplant operation.

The goal is to restore sexual function, and enable the wounded vets to father children.