What Is Penile Fracture And How It Is Treated?

Penile fracture is an emergency condition that occurs when the penis is subjected to sudden trauma or force while erect. This condition usually occurs during sexual intercourse or due to trauma and presents with severe pain, bruising, and sudden swelling. If not treated early and properly, it can lead to permanent deformity or erectile dysfunction.

What Is Penile Fracture?

Penile fracture occurs when the internal tissues of the penis tear due to sudden trauma or force while it is erect. The penis tissue is surrounded by a membrane called the tunica albuginea. This membrane surrounds the tissues that enable the penis to become erect. Although it is called a “fracture” the penis has no bone structure so it is not a true fracture; penile fracture refers to the tearing of this membrane.

Penile fracture usually occurs when the penis hits partner’s body or a hard surface suddenly and incorrectly during sexual intercourse. More rarely, it can also be caused by excessive bending of the penis during masturbation or a sudden trauma (such as a fall or impact).

Penile fracture is a condition that requires urgent medical attention. If not treated at early stage, it can lead to serious consequences such as penile curvature, erectile dysfunction and permanent deformities. Therefore, in a suspected case, it is crucial to consult a urology specialist without delay.

What Are Symptoms Of Penile Fracture?

Since penile fracture occurs suddenly, the symptoms are immediately noticeable. When the membrane surrounding the penis tissue tears while erect, there is a sudden internal pressure release and damage to blood vessels causes rapid bruising and swelling. Patients often clearly see the moment of trauma, the sounds heard and the sudden changes that occur.

The main symptoms of penile fracture are as follows:

• Sudden and severe pain
• A “snap” or “cracking” sound
• Sudden loss of erection
• Swelling (hematoma)
• Bruising (ecchymosis)
• Deformity
• Problems in urination

What Causes Penile Fracture?

Penile fracture occurs when an erect penis is subjected to sudden trauma, bending or excessive force. During erection, the membrane surrounding the penis, called the tunica albuginea, becomes much thinner and more stretched than usual. Therefore, sudden pressure on the penis can tear the membrane and cause a penile fracture. This is the main cause of penile fracture; other causes are the following:

• Incorrect movement during sexual intercourse
• Excessive bending during masturbation
• Sudden pressure or impact on the penis
• Incorrect attempts to end an erection
• Traumatic accidents

How Is Penile Fracture Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of penile fracture is usually easily made through physical examination and the patient’s medical history. A sudden “snap” sound, severe pain, abrupt loss of erection and rapidly developing bruising and swelling are typical signs that expedite diagnosis.

In addition to physical examination, imaging tests such as ultrasonography (USG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be requested. If blood is seen in the urine or the patient is unable to urinate, urethral injury is suspected. In this case, an X-ray can be taken by administering contrast into the urethra (retrograde urethrography) or the inside of the urinary tract can be examined (cystoscopy).

How Is Penile Fracture Treated? What Is Penile Fracture Repair?

The treatment of penile fracture requires urgent surgical intervention. This condition does not resolve on its own and delayed treatment can lead to permanent deformity, erectile dysfunction and urination problems.

The standard treatment method is surgical repair of the penile fracture. In this surgery, the tunica albuginea tissue is repaired using special sutures. This allows the swelling in the penis to be relieved and the bleeding to be controlled. If there is a tear in the urethra (urinary canal), it is also repaired during the same surgery.

Patients are usually discharged after 1-2 days or in some cases, on the same day. Resting for the first two weeks is recommended. After surgery, sexual activity, including masturbation, should be avoided for at least 4 weeks. Follow-up is very important during the recovery process. This process is followed-up through regular doctor visits.

Frequently Asked Questions About Penile Fracture

How Long Does Penile Fracture Surgery Take?

Usually takes 1-2 hours.

What Happens If Penile Fracture Is Not Treated?

Permanent curvature, erectile dysfunction and sexual performance issues may develop.

Can The Penis Really Fracture?

The penis does not have a bone, so it cannot break but the membrane surrounding the penile tissue can tear.

How Long Does Healing Time Take After Penile Fracture Repair?

Recovery typically occurs within 4-8 weeks and sexual activity is usually permitted after this period. Patients can usually return to their daily activities after about 2 weeks.

Can Penile Fracture Reoccur?

Yes, penile fracture can reoccur, even though it is rare. If tissue weakness or curvature developed in individuals who previously experienced a penile fracture, there is a risk of a second fracture if the penis is subjected to trauma again.