Penile Fracture: Long-term Outcome of Immediate Surgical Intervention

Atypical Presentation of a Penile Fracture With Unilateral Corpora Cavernosa and Urethral Injury

A penile fracture is a rare but urgent urologic emergency that requires immediate surgical correction to preserve erectile function. It results from a rupture of the tunica albuginea of one or both corpora cavernosa. Patients classically will present with a history of recent sexual activity and a sudden "snap," followed by detumescence, pain, and swelling of the phallus. The rupture of the tunica albuginea typically happens ventrolaterally along the penile shaft, as the tunica albuginea thins at this location, especially during erections. In this report, we present a case of a penile fracture with a rupture of the tunica albuginea at an unusual location in the distal phallus between the corpora cavernosa and corpora spongiosum.

An unusual presentation of penile fracture with complete transection of urethra: a case report

Penile fracture is one such urologic emergency that occurs when the penis is struck bluntly during sexual activity, and in less than 5-10% of cases, the concurrent urethral damage is evident, but complete transection is very rare. A 37-year-old male presented with a history of 'snap' sound and immediate detumescence of penis during intercourse, when he fell and hit the pubic bone of his partner. There was acute retention of urine, an attempt to pass a catheter failed and the patient underwent supra-pubic catheterization. On examination, there was classical 'eggplant deformity' of the penis with blood at the tip of the meatus. MRI showed a tunical tear on both sides at the penoscrotal junction with indistinct urethra and extensive hematoma in the proximal penile shaft. Surgical management was successfully done by anastomotic urethroplasty and cavernosal repair.

Penile fracture: a case series of 18 patients

Introduction

Penile fractures are a rare urological emergency. It is defined as 'rupture of the tunica albuginea of one or both corpora cavernosa. The corpus spongiosum and the urethra may also be involved in this process.' The tunica albuginea is stiff and significantly thinner during erection than in the flaccid state, which is when injury generally happens.

Method

This case series was completed between January 2018 and January 2023 at the Department of General Surgery. Eighteen patients suspected of having penile fractures participated in were included this study. All patients were thoroughly evaluated upon hospital admission to identify the diagnosis, length of time since the accident, the site of the fracture, the extent of the penile hematoma, occurrence of blood at the external meatus, presence of urine retention, and intraoperative outcomes.

Results

The patients were between the ages of 24 and 70, with a mean age of 37. The duration before the presentation ranged from 7 h to 1 month (the median was 22 h). Sexual intercourse was the cause in 12 (66%) cases, rolling in the bed in three cases (16%), and blunt trauma in three cases (kicking and the edge of the bed) (16%). Pain and swelling were present in all of the patients. In 15 patients (or 83%), there was evidence of penile deviation. At presentation, 15 (72%) patients reported experiencing rapid detumescence, discomfort, and penile swelling after hearing a cracking (popping) sound. None of these individuals experienced urine retention or urethral hemorrhage, and all were emptied on their own following the episode. Physical examination showed penile ecchymosis, swelling, and substantial discomfort when the penile shaft was examined. All but three patients had an evident penile deformity. Surgery was performed under spinal anesthesia in 14 (77.7%) patients. Four patients with a delayed presentation (more than 1 week) were managed conservatively.

Conclusion

As a true urologic emergency, penile fractures should be treated immediately to reduce pain and swelling and ensure better functional and esthetic outcomes. Despite taking more time, a subcoronal circumcising degloving incision is the ideal method because it is exploratory and esthetically pleasing.

The presentation and outcomes of penile fracture with associated urethral injury: A systematic literature review

PURPOSES

Penile fracture (PF) with associated urethral injury has been described as a rare condition yet a serious urological emergency. We conducted this systematic review to address the current literature concerning the etiology, presentations, intra-operative findings, site of injury, and complications of PF with associated urethral injury, Materials and Methods: The present systematic review was limited to human-based studies published in English language, and reporting clinical data on PF cases with associated urethral injuries. A comprehensive search of the literature was conducted on five electronic databases from their inception to May 2022: Medline via PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, and EBSCO host.

RESULTS

A total of 15 studies were included encompassing 1671 patients with PF. Out of 1665 patients with PF retrieved from the case series studies, 65 patients had associated urethral injuries giving a point prevalence of 3.9%. The vast majority of the patients had blood on the meatus and hematuria suggestive of urethral injury (57/59; 96.6%). Forty patients had partial urethral disruption and the rest of the patients had a complete rupture. All patients received primary urethroplasty as the main modality of treatment. The median hospital stay was two days and the median duration of transurethral catheterization was 21 days. Five patients (8.5%) developed urethral stricture; other complications included penile curvature (6.7%), palpable fibrosis (6.7%), and erectile dysfunction (3.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

Urethral injuries are uncommon, but serious findings, in patients with PF. Primary urethroplasty appears to achieve satisfactory outcomes with a low incidence of short and long-term complications.

Comparison of early period sexual function parameters between surgical repair and conservative treatment after penile fracture

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Comparison of early period sexual function parameters in patients who had surgical repair and conservative follow-up after penile fracture and the evaluation of surgical intervention time on these parameters were planned in this study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Total of 26 patients who were treated for penile fracture were evaluated. 19 patients had surgical repair and 7 patients had conservative treatment. Sexual function and erectile dysfunction (ED) degree of the patients before penile fracture and in the 12th week after fracture were evaluated with 5-question International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire, Erection Hardness Score (EHS), Sexual Encounter Profile(SEP) 2 and SEP 3. Parameters showing sexual function before and after the fracture were compared.

RESULTS

In both groups, a significant change was detected in IIEF-5 score, EHS, SEP-2 and SEP-3 parameters of the patients measured after penile fracture compared to the values before the fracture (all parameters, p<0.05). No difference was detected in the parameters measured before and after the fracture among surgical repair and conservative treatment groups (all parameters p>0.05). Mean time passing until the surgery after fracture was measured as 9.6±6.85h in 19 patients who had surgery.

CONCLUSION

A difference wasn't detected in sexual parameters in conservative treatment and surgical repair groups in this study. As a significant decrease was observed in sexual function parameters even in conservative treatment cases without sudden detumescence and tunica albuginea rupturing, we think that quick surgical exploration would be useful in cases considered to have penile fracture.

Urethral rupture concomitant with penile fracture does not adversely affect functional outcomes

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to identify possible risk factors for urethral rupture and to evaluate the effect of urethral rupture repair on long-term functional outcomes and complications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The medical records of consecutive penile fracture patients were retrospectively reviewed. Penile fracture patients with and without urethral rupture were compared according to demographics, clinical and intraoperative findings. Comparisons of postoperative functional results of the groups were performed using the 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Finally, among them, long-term penile complications including penile curvature, painful erection, palpable nodule, and paresthesia were assessed.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients participated. Patients with urethral rupture (n = 8) were older (44.50 ± 10.69, 36.58 ± 10.33 years, p = 0.052). There was no significant difference in fracture etiology (p = 0.64). Urethral bleeding was present only in patients with urethral rupture (p < 0.001). Although no bilateral corpus cavernosum rupture was encountered in penile fracture patients without urethral rupture, this rate was significantly higher in those with urethral rupture at a rate of 62.5% (p < 0.001). The time from surgical repair to sexual activity was similar in both groups (p = 0.66). There was no significant difference in IPSS and IIEF-5 scores, the presence of erectile dysfunction and complication rates (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Older age is a possible risk factor for a concomitant urethral rupture with penile fracture and it seems to be associated with urethral bleeding and bilateral corpus cavernosum involvement. Additionally, urethral rupture repair neither adversely affected functional outcomes nor increased penile complication rates.

Urethrography for diagnostic of penile fracture with ruptured anterior urethra and right corpus cavernosum

Penile fracture is a rare urological emergency that effect due to blunt trauma on erect penis. Mostly often occurs during sexual intercourse and is rare in blunt of trauma from impact at penile. That trauma it can caused by rupture and hematoma of tunica albuginea. In physical examination, we found swelling and hematoma of penile shaft, with abnormal angulation to the right and tenderness. Two hours after sexual intercourse, patient urinated and he felt fresh blood comes out with urine and it is painful. Penile fracture can be diagnostic with clinically and imaging radiology. Important information due clinically with précising radiologist finding can making the correct diagnosis and surgical procedure can be done immediately.

A rare case report of tricorpora penile fracture associated with urethral disruption

Penile fracture is defined as a tear of tunica albuginea that covers the corpus cavernosum during an erection. It is a rare finding that both the corpora cavernosum and corpora spongiosum are involved in penile fracture. Herewith, we reported a rare case of 44 years old presented with penile fracture during woman on top sex position with both corpora cavernosum and corpus spongiosum rupture with urethral disruption. On clinical examination, the penis was swollen, and there was a sudden loss of erection and ecchymosis. Cystoscopy examination revealed urethral rupture. Emergent surgical repair was then performed. During emergency surgery, we found a defect of 3 cm in bicorporal cavernosa with urethral and corpus spongiosum disruption. The penis was degloved, and debridement with water-tight suturing of tunica albuginea was performed to repair the tear in corpora cavernosa. End-to-end anastomosis urethroplasty with spatulation was also performed to repair the urethra. After 21 days following surgery, erectile function was good and no difficulties in voiding function as shown in uroflowmetry result with Qmax >15 mL/s. The patient had a favorable recovery. This was a rare case report, and with early and prompt surgical intervention, this case could result in a good outcome in preserving erectile function and voiding function.

Bilateral Corpus Cavernosum and Complete Urethral Rupture: A Double Trouble

Penile fracture is a rare urologic emergency. The main finding is a partial disruption of one or both cavernosal bodies due to blunt trauma of the penis during an erection. Complete or partial injury of the urethra may accompany the penile fracture but complete urethral rupture is rarely encountered. In this study, we present the management of a penile fracture case with disruption of both corpus cavernosum with total urethral rupture.

Findings regarding non-sexual penile fracture in a referral emergency hospital

Purpose:

To describe penile fracture (PF) findings with non-sexual etiology in a referral emergency hospital, with emphasis on demographic data, clinical and intraoperative findings and long-term outcomes.

Materials and Methods:

Patients with PF of non-sexual cause operated at our institution from January 2014 to January 2019 were submitted to surgical treatment and monitored for at least three months after surgery. Etiology of trauma, epidemiological and clinical presentation data, time to intervention and operative findings were reviewed retrospectively. The evaluation of postoperative erectile function was carried out by filling out the International Index of Erection Function - 5 (IIEF-5). The tool used to assess urinary function was the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) questionnaire.

Results:

Of a total of 149 patients submitted to surgical treatment for PF, 18 (12%) reported non-sexual etiology. Twelve (66.6%) cases were due to penile manipulation through the act of bending the penis during morning erection, three (16.6%) when rolling over in bed with erect penis, one (5.5%) when embracing the wife during erection, one (5.5%) to laying on the partner with erect penis and the other (5.5%) when sitting on the toilet with an erection. Operative findings were unilateral corpus cavernosum injury in all cases. Only one (5.5%) patient had a partial urethral lesion. Follow-up time varied from 3 to 18 months (mean, 10.1 months). Three (16.6%) patients developed erectile dysfunction six months after surgery. However, all of them responded to treatment with IPDE-5 and reported improvement of erection, with no need for medication, on reevaluation after 18 months. One (5.5%) patient developed penile curvature < 30 degrees. Thirteen (72.2%) patients developed penile nodules. No patient presented voiding complaints during follow-up.

Conclusions:

PF is a rare urologic emergency, especially with the non-sexual etiology. However, PF should always be considered when the clinical presentation is suggestive, regardless of the etiology. Penile manipulation and roll over in bed were the most common non-sexual causes. These cases are related to low-energy traumas, usually leading to unilateral rupture of corpus cavernosum. Urethral involvement is uncommon but may be present. Early treatment has good long-term clinical outcome, especially when performed in specialized centers with extensive experience in FP.

Penile fracture associated with complete urethra and bilateral corpora cavernosa transection

Penile fracture is a rare urological emergency caused by blunt trauma to the erect penis. It occurs due to the forcible bending of the turgid erect penis against resistance leading to tunica albuginea tear. The rupture of tunica albuginea surrounding the corpora cavernosa leads to hematoma formation and classical 'aubergine' deformity. Timely intervention is essential to improve sexual function. Urethral injury may occur concomitantly in case of severe trauma. Blood at the meatus, inability to void and haematuria are distinctive features. We describe a case of 36-year-old man who presented to the emergency department with penile fracture during sexual intercourse associated with blood at the meatus and voiding difficulty. On surgical exploration, complete bilateral corpora cavernosa tear and penile urethral transection was noted. The patient was successfully managed with timely repair. This case highlights the need for suspicion of an associated urethral injury in patients of penile fracture with blood at the meatus.

A case of traumatic penile fracture with simultaneous rupture of both corpora cavernosa and complete urethral transection

Penile fracture is a rare injury to the penis caused by blunt trauma. The presence of urethral injuries sustained during fracture is less than 10%, but very few cases involve complete circumferential urethral transection. We present a case of a patient who presented with traumatic penile fracture involving bilateral corporal cavernosa injury and complete urethral transection.

Lessons learned after 20 years' experience with penile fracture

Objective:

To report our experience over the past 20 years in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of penile fracture (PF).

Materials and methods:

Between January 1997 and January 2017, patients with clinical diagnosis of PF were admitted to our facility and retrospectively assessed. Medical records were reviewed for clinical presentation, etiology and operative findings. Postoperative complications, sexual and urinary function were evaluated.

Results:

Sexual trauma was the main etiological factor, responsible for 255 cases (88.5%): 110 (43.1%) occurred with the “doggy style” position, 103 (40.3%) with “man on top” position, 31 (12.1%) with the “woman on top” position and 11 (4.3%) in other sexual positions. The most common findings in the clinical presentation were hematoma, in all cases and detumescence in 238 (82.6%). Unilateral corpus cavernosum injuries were found in 199 (69%) patients and bilateral in 89 (31%) patients. Urethral injuries were observed in 54 (18.7%) cases. Nine (14.7%) patients developed erectile dysfunction and eight (13.1%) had penile curvature. Only two (3.7%) patients had complications after urethral reconstruction.

Conclusions:

PF has typical clinical presentation and no need for additional tests in most cases. Hematoma and immediate penile detumescence are the most common clinical findings. Sexual activity was the most common cause. The ‘doggy style’ and ‘man-on-top’ was the most common positions and generally associated with more severe lesions. Concomitant urethral injury should be considered in cases of highenergy trauma. Surgical reconstruction produces satisfactory results, however, it can lead to complications, such as erectile dysfunction and penile curvature.

Urethral injury in penile fracture: a narrative review

Objective

To present the evolution and the recent data on the etiology, diagnosis, management and outcomes of penile fracture (PF) with concomitant urethral injury.

Materials and Methods

We searched the Pubmed database between 1998 and 2019 using the following key words: “penile fracture”, “fracture of penis”, “trauma to penis”, “rupture of corpora cavernosa”, “urethral injury”, “urethral rupture” and “urethral reconstruction”.

Results

The incidence of urethral lesion in patients with PF varies by geographic region and etiology. Blood in the meatus, hematuria and voiding symptoms are highly indicative of urethral rupture. The diagnosis of PF is eminently clinical and complementary exams are not necessary. The treatment consists of urethral reconstruction and the most common complications found are urethral stenosis and urethrocutaneous fistula.

Conclusion

PF is an uncommon urological emergency, particularly in cases with urethral involvement. Urethral injury should be suspected in the presence of suggestive clinical signs, and diagnosis is usually clinical. Urgent urethral reconstruction is mandatory and produces satisfactory results with low levels of complications.

Bilateral fracture of corpora cavernosa with complete rupture of the anterior urethra: Case report and review of recent findings for surgical management

Introduction: Penile fracture is a rare urological emergency associated in up to 30% of cases with injury to the anterior urethra. Recent data suggest that early surgical intervention is the best treatment strategy. This investigation describes a case of bilateral corpora cavernosa injury associated with complete rupture of the anterior urethra and presents current concepts about its management.Case presentation: 39-year-old man with bilateral corpora cavernosa injury and complete rupture of the anterior urethra, who received early surgical treatment with satisfactory early clinical outcomes. A literature review was made in PubMed and Embase, limiting the search to scientific articles published in the past 10 years using the MeSH terms “Penile diseases”, “Genital diseases, male”, “Wounds and injuries”. Some references were included given their clinical relevance. In this case, similar to international experiences, early surgical management of corpora cavernosa fractures allowed achieving adequate clinical outcomes in the patient.Conclusions: The diagnosis of penile fracture is based on clinical findings. Early surgical management should be considered as a therapy of choice. Conservative management has a higher complication rate versus early surgical management. The case described here had an adequate clinical evolution after 3 months of follow-up.

Penile Fracture: Simultaneous Complete Urethral Rupture with Bilateral Corpora Cavernosa Rupture

Penile fracture is not uncommon blunt trauma to the penis. Here, we present a rare case of penile fracture during sexual intercourse. The patient presented with penile swelling, bleeding per urethra, and inability to pass urine. Retrograde urethrogram showed significant extravasation of contrast from anterior penile urethra and no contrast passing to proximal urethra. Surgical exploration showed complete urethral rupture and bilateral cavernosal rupture. This case represents the value of urethrogram to evaluate the urethral injury and the association of complete urethral injury with bilateral ventral cavernosal injury.

Penile refracture: a preliminary report

Objective:

To report our institutional experience with penile refracture, including demographic data, recurrence time, etiology and operative findings in the first and second episodes.

Materials and methods:

Between January 1982 and September 2017, 281 patients underwent surgical treatment for penile fracture (PF) at our institution. Demographic data, clinical presentation, besides operative findings and follow-up of patients with relapsed PF were retrospectively assessed by reviewing medical records.

Results:

Of a total of 281 cases of PF operated at our institution, 3 (1.06%) patients experienced two episodes of trauma. Age ranged from 38 – 40 years (mean: 39.3). The recurrence time varied from 45 to 1560 days (mean: 705). Two patients presented the new fracture episode at the same site of the previous lesion, while in the other case the lesion was observed at another site.

Conclusion:

Recurrent FP is an extremely rare entity. The risk factors for its occurrence are still unknown. Although the lesion of the corpus cavernosum ipsilateral to the scar tissue of the prior FP is more common, contralateral rupture may be present. Nevertheless, prospective studies with larger samples should be conducted.

Effects of penile fracture and its surgical treatment on psychosocial and sexual function

The current therapy for penile fracture is immediate surgical repair, but sexual and psychosocial effects of the repair have been poorly investigated. We aimed to assess the impact of surgical correction of penile fracture on psychosocial status, sexual function, and erectile quality. Sixty-four patients classified into two subgroups according to follow-up: 2-24 months (Group 1), and longer than 24 months (Group 2), and 28 healthy men (Control group). The mean overall follow-up period was 39.1±32.7 months. The number of sexual intercourse origin was 44 (68.8%), the mean time interval from incident-to-surgery was 13.6±9.3 h. The mean sexual relationship score decreased during first year (P=0.001), and significant recovery was observed over 12-24 months. The mean overall relationship scores and the mean self-esteem scores of the study groups decreased until the end of the 24 months (P<0.05). The mean erectile function domains remained stable in all groups (P>0.05). The mean EHS scores were lower but the difference was not significant in the study groups (P>0.05). Penile fracture repair have no detrimental effect on sexual function, but psychogenic aspect may be adversely affected. This article concludes lower complication rates can be reached with immediate surgical correction of the penile fracture whereas psychogenic recovery might prolonged.

Penile fracture: role of ultrasound

Penile fracture is a rare surgical emergency which requires prompt diagnosis and immediate surgical repair. In most cases the diagnosis is clinical however, in equivocal cases ultrasound examination can help in establishing the diagnosis by demonstrating the site and extent of tunica albuginea disruption. In this article, we are presenting sonographic findings in two cases of penile fractures.

Comparison of different approaches to the surgical treatment of penile fractures: quicker return to sexual function with longitudinal incisions

The objective of this study was to compare the long-term clinical outcomes from longitudinal incisions and subcoronal circumferential degloving incisions in the surgical treatment of penile fractures. From July 2001 to July 2014, 23 patients were identified with penile fractures. Fourteen patients underwent longitudinal incisions after ultrasound localization; nine patients underwent subcoronal circumferential degloving incisions. Sexual function was evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively using an abridged International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire. The mean (±s.d.) operative time was 19.1 (±3.9) min in the longitudinal incision group and was 45.1 (±6.5) min in the subcoronal circumferential degloving incision group (P<0.05). The mean (±s.d.) times required to recover sexual function were 35.6 (±6.0) days in the longitudinal incision group and 54.0 (±5.8) days in the circumferential incision group (P<0.05). Six months postoperatively, the erectile functions of all cases were comparable to the level preoperatively except three patients. One patient from each group reported symptoms associated with mild ED, but they experienced satisfying sexual orgasms after psychotherapy for 2 months. Another patient's score on the IIEF-5 declined from 25 to 24 points in the circumferential incision group 10 months postoperatively, and this was associated with maintaining an erection after vaginal penetration. In conclusion, the longitudinal incision may allow quicker return to sexual function but not necessarily improved the long-term clinical outcomes. Furthermore, postoperative psychosocial nursing and psychotherapy should receive more attention.

Penile Fracture: A Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVES

To review the causes and management of penile fracture and to compare between surgical and conservative management as well as immediate and delayed interventions in terms of overall and specific complications.

METHODS

A search of all reported literature was conducted for all articles reporting on the management and outcomes of penile fractures. Full texts of relevant articles were obtained and screened according to the inclusion criteria. Outcomes measures were numbers of patients receiving surgical or conservative management, aetiology of fracture, length of admission, complications as well as the specifics of diagnostic approaches and operative management. Data was collated and where possible meta-analysed using Revman software.

RESULTS

A total of 58 relevant studies involving 3,213 patients demonstrated that intercourse accounts for only 48% of cases with masturbation and forced flexion accounting for 39%. Meta-analysis shows that surgical intervention was associated with significantly fewer complications vs. conservative management (p < 0.000001). Surgical intervention results in significantly less erectile dysfunction (ED), curvature and painful erection than conservative management. There was no significant difference in the number of patients developing plaques/nodules (p = 0.94). Meta-analysis shows that overall early surgery is preferable to delayed surgery but that rates of ED are not significantly different.

DISCUSSION

Early surgical intervention is associated with significantly fewer complications than conservative management or delayed surgery. The combined outcome of rapid diagnosis by history and clinical examination and swift surgical intervention is key for reconstruction with minimal long-term complications.

Delaying Surgical Treatment of Penile Fracture Results in Poor Functional Outcomes: Results from a Large Retrospective Multicenter European Study

BACKGROUND

Penile fracture is a rare clinical entity that represents a urologic emergency. It involves traumatic rupture of the tunica albuginea of the corpora cavernosa due to twisting or bending of the penile shaft during erection.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the differences in preoperative diagnostic evaluation patterns and outcomes of penile fracture patients to investigate the impact of surgical delay on functional outcomes.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A retrospective analysis was performed using data obtained from 137 patients presenting with penile fracture at seven different European academic medical centers between 1996 and 2013. Age, imaging modalities used, timing of surgical intervention, length of tunica albuginea defect, and surgical technique were recorded. Postoperative erectile function outcomes were assessed with the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), and the presence of postoperative penile curvature was noted.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The association between timing of surgical intervention and postoperative IIEF-5 results was evaluated with discriminant function analysis.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

The median age of the patients was 34.50 yr (interquartile range [IQR]: 28.0-46.5 yr). Of the 137 patients, 82 (59.85%) underwent penile Doppler ultrasound, and 5 patients (3.64%) were evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging. All patients were treated surgically, and the duration between emergency room admission and surgical intervention was 5.0h (IQR: 3.6-8.0h). The median length of tunica albuginea defect was 10mm (IQR: 8-20mm). Postoperative IIEF-5 scores were 21 (IQR: 12-23) and 23 (IQR: 15-24) at the first and third postoperative months, respectively. Discriminant function analysis revealed that if the surgical intervention was performed >8.23hours after emergency room admission, postoperative erectile function was significantly worse (p=0.0051 at first month and p=0.0057 at third month postoperatively).

CONCLUSIONS

Our multicenter study showed that delaying surgical intervention results in significantly impaired erectile function. Surgical treatment must be planned as soon as possible to avoid postoperative erectile dysfunction.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We looked at sexual outcomes following the repair of penile fracture in a large European population. We found that outcomes worsened if surgical repair was delayed.

Penile manipulation: The most common etiology of penile fracture at our tertiary care center

Penile fracture is the disruption of the tunica albuginea with rupture of the corpus cavernosum secondary to blunt trauma to the erect penis. It is an unusual condition, usually underreported. According to the published literature, vigorous vaginal intercourse with women on top position is the most common etiology across the globe including India with Middle Eastern countries being the exception. A total of seven patients of penile fracture presented in emergency in the last 6 months. The etiology was penile manipulation at the time of sexual excitement in six out of seven patients of penile fracture, which was contrary to the literature published except in Middle Eastern countries. All the patients were managed by emergency exploration and repair. Thus, the incidence and etiologies of penile fracture vary according to geographic region, sexual behavior, marital status, and culture.

Penile fracture with two ipsilateral corporal tears and delayed presentation: A case report

Although penile fracture is an infrequent injury, it is a well-described urologic emergency. It results from the rupture of the tunica albuginea of corpora cavernosa by blunt strain that mandates immediate surgical exploration. Reported cases are usually single tear unless contralateral corporal tear is present. We present a case of 56-year-old with intraoperative findings of two separate tears in the same corpus cavernosum. Clinical presentation was also delayed for 4 days post-injury and repair was performed on day 7. This case accentuates the need for a high index of suspicion to rule out concomitant ipsilateral tear. Delayed repair was possible, and full recovery ensued.

Alteration in the etiology of penile fracture in the Middle East and Central Asia regions in the last decade; a literature review

Penile fracture is a well-recognized, relatively uncommon medical condition and its etiology differs according to geographic area. In this review article, we evaluated literature reported in the past decade, aiming to verify whether there has been any change in the etiology of this condition. A literature review was done for studies published in the past 10 years and focusing on the etiology of penile fracture. Inclusion criteria comprised articles in English language, of sample size more than 10 patients and originating from the Middle East and Central Asia. Data relating to the studied population, etiology of penile fracture, clinical presentation, investigations, management, and outcome was analyzed. One thousand six hundred and twenty-nine patients from 21 original articles were included in the study. The mean age ± standard deviation of the patients was 33.3 ± 3.23 years. Etiologies of penile fracture were vigorous sexual intercourse, manual bending of erect penis, vigorous masturbation, rolling over in bed and blunt trauma in 41%, 29%, 10%, 14% and 6% patients, respectively. Treatment choices were surgery and conservative, in 1580 (95%), 83 (5%) patients, respectively. A higher incidence of complications was found in conservatively treated patients. As a conclusion, in the last 10 years, vigorous sexual intercourse was the commonest etiology of penile fracture in the Middle East and Central Asia regions. Surgery remains the preferred treatment option for patients diagnosed with penile fracture.

Myriad presentations of penile fracture: report of three cases and review of literature

Penile fracture is an unusual though not a rare condition but underreported. It is defined classically as the disruption of the tunica albuginea with rupture of the corpus cavernosum. Penile fracture can be misdiagnosed with rupture of corpus spongiosum clinically. Therefore, we are presenting three cases due to its varied clinical presentation and management. In first patient, there was a tear in the corpus spongiosum and a partial tear in the ventral urethra. Both defects were repaired with interrupted sutures. In the second patient, there was a rupture of corpus cavernosum, which was primarily repaired. After 1-year of primary surgery, patient again came with similar complaints, and diagnosis of scar dehiscence was made. Patient was treated conservatively with satisfactory results on follow-up. Third patient came with a history of 1-week. Intra-operative findings revealed only hematoma without any defect in corpora cavernosum, corpus spongiosum, and urethra. Only evacuation of hematoma was done. Early surgical treatment of penile fracture is advantageous. In recurrent penile fracture, if no penile deformity or any reasonable clinical and radiological evidence, then conservative management is advocated. Even when presentation is delayed up to 1-week, operative management has shown good results.

Hidden penile fracture: An unusual presentation and review of literature

Penile fractures, a not so uncommon urological emergency, mostly present with a characteristic history and physical examination. Here, we present an atypical case where even in the absence of physical findings, a characteristic history led us to penile exploration and timely repair, highlighting the importance of careful history-taking in these cases.

Urotrauma: AUA guideline

PURPOSE

The authors of this guideline reviewed the urologic trauma literature to guide clinicians in the appropriate methods of evaluation and management of genitourinary injuries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review of the literature using the MEDLINE® and EMBASE databases (search dates 1/1/90-9/19/12) was conducted to identify peer-reviewed publications relevant to urotrauma. The review yielded an evidence base of 372 studies after application of inclusion/exclusion criteria. These publications were used to inform the statements presented in the guideline as Standards, Recommendations or Options. When sufficient evidence existed, the body of evidence for a particular treatment was assigned a strength rating of A (high), B (moderate) or C (low). In the absence of sufficient evidence, additional information is provided as Clinical Principles and Expert Opinions.

RESULTS

Guideline statements were created to inform clinicians on the initial observation, evaluation and subsequent management of renal, ureteral, bladder, urethral and genital traumatic injuries.

CONCLUSIONS

Genitourinary organ salvage has become increasingly possible as a result of advances in imaging, minimally invasive techniques, and reconstructive surgery. As the field of genitourinary reconstruction continues to evolve, clinicians must strive to approach clinical problems in a creative, multidisciplinary, evidence-based manner to ensure optimal outcomes.

Traumatic rupture of the corpus cavernosum: surgical management and clinical outcomes. A 30 years review

INTRODUCTION

Penile trauma (PT) with associated rupture of the corpus cavernosum, also called penile fracture, is a urological emergency and surgical treatment is usually the choice of management. Our objective is to report our experience after 30 years in the diagnosis and therapeutic options of PT and evaluate the clinical outcomes after the treatment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From January 1983 to January 2013, 27 patients were identified. Data was analyzed and is presented in absolute numbers, range, percentage and mean.

RESULTS

Mean age of patients was 30.7 years, range from 19 to 37. All the patients came complaining of penile swelling and hematoma, and more than half of them (60.7%) reported hearing a snap sound. Some rare causes were identified in our series such as self-mutilation, avulsion, firearm and electrocution. Clinical presentation was diagnostic in all the patients, and the diagnosis was verified by penile ultrasonography in most cases (60.7%). Mean surgery time: 94 minutes. Urethral repair was required in 2 patients. Mean hospital stay was 2 days. Good functional results are shown during follow up.

CONCLUSIONS

Rupture of the corpus cavernosum is a rare condition and is generally diagnosed by clinical findings. Emergency surgical exploration and treatment is the best guarantee of good functional and cosmetic results.

Penile fracture with bilateral corporeal rupture without urethral involvement

Concomitant urethral injury is rare in penile fracture. We report the case of a 34-year-old male who presented to the emergency department 12 hours after a blunt self-injury of the penis. Physical examination revealed a swollen, ecchymotic, and deviated circumcised penis without blood at the meatus. The fracture line extending along the bilateral corpora without urethral involvement was seen intraoperatively. The fracture side was repaired primarily. The patient healed and recovered without complication. To our knowledge, this is the second reported case of bilateral corporeal rupture without urethral involvement.

Sexual function outcomes following fracture of the penis

INTRODUCTION

Fracture of the penis is a rare urological emergency which occurs as a result of abrupt trauma to an erect penis. There is paucity of data regarding long-term sexual function or erectile potency following fracture of the penis. The aim of this study is to objectively assess the overall sexual function following fracture of the penis.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 21 penile fractures was performed. A voluntary telephone questionnaire was performed to assess long term outcomes using three validated questionnaires-the Erection Hardness Grading Scale, the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and the Brief Male Sexual Function inventory (BMSFI).

RESULTS

The mean age was 33.1 years (range: 19-63). The median follow up was 46 months (range: 3-144). All fractures were a result of sexual misadventure and all were surgically repaired. There were two concomitant urethral injuries. Seventeen patients were contactable. Fourteen patients demonstrated no evidence of erectile dysfunction (ED) (IIEF-5>22), 1 patient reported symptoms of mild ED (IIEF-5, 17-21) and one patient reported mild to moderate ED (IIEF-5, 12-16). No patients reported insufficient erection for penetration (EHGS: 1 or 2). Regarding the overall BMSFI, 13 (83%) patients were mostly satisfied or very satisfied with their sex life within the previous month.

CONCLUSION

In a small surgical series of men with penile fracture managed within a short time frame from presentation, we demonstrate erectile potency is maintained. Long-term overall sexual satisfaction is promising.

Which is guilty in self-induced penile fractures: marital status, culture or geographic region? A case series and literature review

Penile fracture is a well-recognized and relatively uncommon clinical entity. It was previously reported that the incidence of penile fracture varies according to various geographic regions. In order to determine whether marital status or culture other than geographic region is involved in the etiology of penile fracture in our country, the charts of 122 men diagnosed with penile fracture were retrospectively reviewed. Detailed history including cause, symptoms, country of origin and a single-question self-report of erectile dysfunction was used for all cases. Diagnosis of our cases was mainly based on history and physical examination and ultrasonography. Immediate or delayed surgical repair of penile fracture included a degloving circumferential, and an additional direct incision, if the site of the tear could not be reached via degloving, was performed. The patients were evaluated after 1 week and 1, 3, and 6 months follow-up by penile examination, recording complications, and with a single-question self-report questionnaire after 3 and 6 months. The most common cause of penile fracture was manual bending of the erected penis in 66 out of 122 (54.1%) of our study patients. In our study, we believe that the prime causes of bending the penis are single status and culture, which are influencing factors irrespective of the geographic distribution.

Surgical management of penile fracture and long-term outcome on erectile function and voiding

INTRODUCTION

Penile fracture is an emergency in urology. Surgical management is recommended, but objective data of postoperative long-term effects, especially regarding voiding and erectile function, vary.

AIM

To assess long-term results of patients undergoing surgical therapy for penile fracture.

METHODS

Patients presenting with suspicion of penile fracture were included in this study. Diagnosis of penile fracture was made by clinical assessment and surgery performed thereafter. The defect of the tunica albuginea was closed by absorbable suture. In case of concomitant urethral lesion, the defect was repaired simultaneously. Voiding and erectile function were evaluated at long-term follow-up by mail. Patients' status before penile fracture was assessed retroactively.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Erectile function was assessed by the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire and voiding function by the International Prostate Symptom Score questionnaire.

RESULTS

N = 34 patients were included. Penile fracture was suspected in 28/34 (82.4%) patients. Twenty-six of the 28 (92.9%) patients underwent surgery. Only less than half of confirmed fracture patients presented with the classical triad of an audible crack, detumescense, and hematoma. Fourteen of the 26 (53.8%) patients after surgery were available for follow-up. Mean follow-up was 45.6 months (range: 3.6-128.4). In 13/14 (92.9%) patients, penile fracture was confirmed by surgery. At follow-up, 7/13 (53.8%) patients had impaired erectile function, with 3/13 (23.1%) patients needing medical treatment. Four of the 13 (30.8%) patients showed deterioration of voiding including occurrence of urethral fistula.

CONCLUSIONS

Penile fracture is an emergency for which surgery should be offered. Clinical suspicion of fracture should be high even with hematoma alone. Concomitant urethral injury is common, particularly with bilateral corporal rupture and/or initial hematuria. Preoperative counseling should include discussion of long-term erectile and voiding dysfunction, penile deformity, and urethral fistula both with and without surgery. Close patient follow-up is required.

A case of penile fracture at the crura of the penis without urethral involvement: Rare entity

Penile fracture is a rare injury, most commonly sustained during sexual intercourse. We report the case of a 29-year-old man who presented with bilateral rupture of the crura of the cavernosa without urethral injury. This is the first case in the literature to present with this unique finding. Urgent surgical exploration was performed and the injuries repaired primarily. At follow-up, the patient reported satisfactory erectile function. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis with unusual presentation and early surgical repair for better outcome.

Management of urogenital trauma: state of the art

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The field of urogenital trauma is undergoing constant improvement mainly due to better diagnostic tools, a shift toward standardized treatments and better trauma care. The purpose of this review is to summarize the most relevant studies published within the last 3 years on the subject.

RECENT FINDINGS

Computerized tomography grading of renal trauma is an excellent predictor of the need for surgery and the final renal outcome in these patients, as most patients can be treated conservatively. Computerized tomography cystography has become the standard for the diagnosis of bladder rupture in which the indications for surgical intervention may be changing. The most common urethral trauma is posterior urethral injury due to pelvic fracture. The best results in adults and children are achieved by urethroplasty.

SUMMARY

The diagnosis and treatment of genitourinary trauma is still evolving. The long-term sequels of these injuries may best be treated by urologists expert in urogenital reconstruction. In the future, tissue engineering may have an important place in the treatment of these patients.

[Corpus cavernosum fracture: the ultrasound in the emergency diagnosis]

OBJECTIVE

The main objective of this work is to study usefulness of ultrasound (US) for the emergency diagnosis of the penile fracture.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We reviewed all the penile US studies registered in our Emergency Department between July 2007 and August 2009 with suspicion of a corpus cavernosum fracture. We compared US findings (subcutaneous haematoma, peri-albuginea haematoma, albuginea rupture and Bucḱs fascia rupture), and the clinical progress, with those of the surgery. We studied sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of US in the diagnosis of rupture of the tunica albuginea. The epidemiological data of all the cases reviewed were collected.

RESULTS

Twelve patients with a mean age of 37.8 years were reviewed. The most common cause of injury was sexual intercourse. A subcutaneous haematoma was found in nine patients, a peri-albuginea hematoma in eleven of the cases, and an albuginea rupture was seen in six of them. We found no Bucḱs fascia rupture. Seven patients underwent surgical treatment and in the remaining five patients, treatment was conservative. Clinical progress was good in all cases. US, as an emergency test to diagnose albuginea fracture gave 0.83 sensitivity, 1 specificity, 1 positive predictive value and 0.83 negative predictive value.

CONCLUSION

We believe that US is a useful procedure in the diagnosis of acute penile fracture and that it could be proposed as the diagnostic method of choice to confirm the clinical suspicion of penile fracture. Identifying the exact site of a tear in the tunica albuginea facilitates the surgical procedure.

No evidence of depression, anxiety, and sexual dysfunction following penile fracture

There is a gap in the literature about psychological status of patients following penile fracture surgery. We aimed to assess the long-term psychological status of penile fracture patients who have been treated by immediate surgical repair. A total of 32 patients with penile fracture have been treated surgically at our center. These 32 patients and 30 healthy control subjects were included in the study. All participants have completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Glombok-Rust Inventory of Satisfaction Scale (GRISS), and the premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT). The mean age of patients was 30.4 years and the mean body mass index was 27.3 kg m(-2). Sexual intercourse was the most common cause of the fracture. Immediate surgical repair was performed in all cases using a circumferential subcoronal incision and none of the patients had urethral injury intraoperatively. All tears were unilateral with a mean size of 1.5 cm. Only two patients had superficial dorsal vein rupture. At the day of assessment, the mean time elapsed after penile trauma was 15.9±6.3 months (range: 6-23). Only three patients had complications due to penile fracture including minimal penile curvature, penile nodule, and penile pain during intercourse. The mean scores obtained from PEDT, HADS, and GRISS did not show any statistically significant difference between groups. Anxiety, depression, premature ejaculation, and sexual dyssatisfaction levels were similar in both penile fracture patients who underwent immediate surgical repair and healthy control subjects. Immediate surgical repair of corporal ruptures have not shown any harmful psychogenic sequelae on patients with penile fracture.

Risk factors of erectile dysfunction and penile vascular changes after surgical repair of penile fracture

This study was conducted to determine the preoperative and intraoperative risk factors of ED and the underlying penile vascular abnormalities among patients with penile fracture treated surgically. In all, 180 patients with penile fracture were treated surgically and followed up in one center. None of our patients had ED before the penile trauma and only two of them had risk factors for systemic vascular diseases, such as diabetes mellitus (one patient) and hypertension (one patient). After a mean follow-up of 106 months, 11 patients (6.6%) developed ED, 7 had mild ED and 4 had moderate ED. The main risk factors for subsequent ED were aging, >50 years, and bilateral corporal involvement. Among the 11 patients with ED, color Doppler ultrasonography (CDU) showed normal Doppler indices in 4 (36.4%), veno-occlusive dysfunction in 4 (36.4%) and arterial insufficiency in the remaining 3 (27.2%) patients. CDU assessments from the injured and intact sides were comparable. ED of either a psychological or vascular origin can be encountered as a long-term sequel of surgical treatment of penile fracture. Aging, >50 years, at presentation and bilateral corporal involvement is the main risk factors for subsequent development of ED.

Penile fracture with bilateral corporeal rupture and complete urethral disruption: case report and literature review

Penile fracture is a rare injury most commonly sustained during sexual intercourse. We report the case of a 35-year-old man who presented with bilateral rupture of the corpora cavernosa and complete disruption of the urethra. A review of the literature on penile fracture is also presented. Urgent surgical exploration was performed and the injuries repaired primarily. In follow-up, the patient reported satisfactory erectile function. This case highlights the importance of early surgical repair and evaluation for concomitant urethral injuries in cases of penile fracture.

Long-term significance of the number of hours until surgical repair of penile fractures

OBJECTIVES

We investigated whether a delay in time until surgery, in terms of hours, has any effect on the overall long-term results of surgical repair of penile fractures.

METHODS

Between 2001 and 2009, we operated on 56 patients with penile fractures. We evaluated 43 patients sorted into 3 groups according to the time interval until surgery. We applied the validated Turkish version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire 3 times: for the time period before the fracture, 1 year after the fracture, and at the time of the study. An erectile dysfunction score was calculated for every patient.

RESULTS

Overall, the mean follow-up was 46.1 ± 19.2 months. The mean number of hours from trauma to surgery was 11.3 ± 8.5. There was no statistically significant difference between the 3 groups in terms of age and length of tears. The results of the IIEF questionnaires of each group for time periods and for individual patients in each separate group were statistically similar.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical repair has a good functional outcome and low complication rates in the long term. Neither serious deformities nor erectile dysfunction occur as a consequence of a delay in surgery in the long term in patients with no urethral involvement within a given period of time.

Surgical repair and analysis of penile fracture complications

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study is to describe and analyze the experience over a period of 10 years at our center through a retrospective study of a series of diagnosed and treated cases of penile fracture.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From 2005 to 2009 the Urology Department of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos of Madrid carried out a retrospective case study of a total of 15 cases of penile fracture. The diagnosis was reached through physical exploration of the patient aided by a penile ultrasound; the immediate treatment performed on the patients was emergency surgical repair.

RESULTS

From the total in the series (n = 15), only 1 case was associated with a complete urethral fracture (6.6%). Surgical repair was performed in all cases; the average hospital stay was 2.6 days (range 1-5), and the most frequent long-term complication was erectile dysfunction in 3 of 15 cases (20%).

CONCLUSIONS

A penis fracture diagnosis is mostly clinical; complementary tests, such as ultrasound, are helpful but not definitive. Surgical treatment consists of an incision that allows adequate exposure of the corpora cavernosa and urethra to repair the suspected lesions found upon diagnosis. Ambulatory follow-up is essential to diagnose and treat possible complications.