What is a Penile Fracture?
A penile fracture is a rare but serious injury where the fibrous covering of the erectile tissue tears due to trauma, usually during an erection.
What causes a Penile Fracture?
Common causes include:
- Sudden bending or blunt trauma to an erect penis
- Vigorous sexual intercourse or masturbation
- Accidental injury such as falling on an erect penis
- Other blunt injuries to the genital area
What are the symptoms of a Penile Fracture?
Symptoms typically include:
- A sudden popping or cracking sound during injury
- Immediate pain and swelling of the penis
- Rapid loss of erection (detumescence)
- Bruising and discoloration of the penile shaft
- Deformity or bending of the penis (sometimes called “eggplant deformity”)
- Difficulty urinating or blood in urine in severe cases
How is a Penile Fracture diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves:
- Patient history describing the injury
- Physical examination showing swelling, bruising, and deformity
- Ultrasound or MRI to confirm the tear and assess severity
- Urinalysis if urinary symptoms are present
How is a Penile Fracture treated?
Treatment includes:
- Prompt surgical repair to restore normal anatomy and function
- Conservative treatments like rest and ice are generally discouraged
- Postoperative care with antibiotics, pain management, and abstaining from sex until healed
What is the prognosis for a Penile Fracture?
- Most patients recover full function with timely surgery
- Delayed or no treatment may cause erectile dysfunction, penile curvature, or painful erections
- Early intervention leads to better outcomes
How can someone support recovery from a Penile Fracture?
- Follow all postoperative instructions carefully
- Avoid sexual activity until doctor approval
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing
- Seek psychological support if feeling anxious or distressed