Penile Fracture: Symptoms, Treatment, Cost, Recovery, and More

Penile fracture is a serious injury that occurs when the erect penis is subjected to a sudden, forceful bending or trauma, typically during sexual activity. It involves rupture of the tunica albuginea, the thick membrane that surrounds the erectile tissue. Let’s delve into the symptoms, causes, and management of penile fracture.

Symptoms of penile fracture

Penile fractures are characterized by a range of symptoms, including:

Immediate Pain: Intense pain occurs at the moment of injury due to the rupture of the tunica albuginea.

Audible Popping or Snapping Sound: Some individuals may hear a distinct popping or snapping sound during the injury, indicating the tearing of tissues.

Rapid Loss of Erection: The penis quickly loses its erection as the traumatic event disrupts the normal blood flow.

Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising develop rapidly, causing noticeable changes in the appearance of the penis.

Bleeding from Penis: Individuals may experience bleeding due to ruptured blood vessels.

Deformity: The penis may appear bent or distorted, reflecting the site of the tear in the tunica albuginea.

Difficulty Urinating: Urethral injury can lead to difficulty or pain during urination.

Causes of penile fracture

Penile fractures are generally the result of sudden, intense trauma during sexual intercourse. Common causes of penile fracture include:

Aggressive Sexual Intercourse: Rapid and vigorous thrusting, especially when the penis slides out of your partner and hits the area between the anus and the pelvic bone.

Awkward Positions: Certain sexual positions may increase the risk of penile fracture if there is an unexpected change in angle or direction.

Trauma from Masturbation: Forceful bending or aggressive manipulation during masturbation can also lead to penis fracture.

Accidental Trauma: Falling on top of an erect penis, rolling over on top of an erection, or striking an erect penis against the wall or door can also lead to penis fracture.

Diagnosis and medical evaluation

The diagnosis of penile fracture necessitates a comprehensive examination that includes a thorough clinical examination, medical history, or imaging studies.

Clinical Examination: A healthcare provider will assess the patient’s symptoms, examining the penis for signs of swelling, bruising, or deformity.

Medical History: Details about the incident, including the nature of the trauma and any accompanying symptoms, are important for diagnosing penile fracture.

Imaging Studies: In some cases, ultrasound or other imaging tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the injury.

Imaging tests may include:

1. a) Ultrasound: This is a common and effective method to visualize the penis, identifying ruptures and hematoma.
2. b) MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): In some cases, an MRI may be used to provide detailed images and assess the extent of the injury.
3. c) Retrograde Urethrogram: If there’s a concern about urethral injury, a retrograde urethrogram may be performed to visualize the urethra.

It is essential to undergo prompt medical examination and diagnosis to determine the appropriate course of treatment for penile fractures.

Treatment options

Penile fractures are usually treated surgically by repairing the torn tunica albuginea membrane. Immediate medical attention is essential to avoid complications and to ensure a successful operation. During the surgery, the urologist will repair the tear in the membrane, often using stitches to close the wound. The average cost of fractured penis treatment in India is estimated to be between Rs. 1,92,000 and Rs. 3,20,000. The price may vary depending on the hospital.

Neglecting or delaying treatment can result in complications, including erectile dysfunction and deformity. Although a penile fracture can be a stressful experience, prompt medical care and adherence to the treatment plan can significantly improve the likelihood of a complete recovery. It is essential to maintain open communication with healthcare providers to address any concerns and ensure a successful recovery.

Recovery

The post-operative recovery process for penile fracture surgery involves gradual return to normal life. It is essential to adhere to the surgeon’s instructions for optimal healing.

Adequate Rest: Adequate rest is essential, with a temporary restriction on strenuous physical activities, including sexual intercourse, for several weeks.

Pain Management: Pain and swelling can be managed with prescribed medications. Cold packs can also be used to alleviate discomfort.

Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with the urologist is required to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.

Gradual Resumption of Activities: Patients are typically advised to slowly return to normal work, including sexual activity, based on the timeline provided by the healthcare provider.

While physical recovery is essential, it is equally important to address any psychological distress or anxiety associated with the injury.

Penile fracture involves the rupture of the tunica albuginea during forceful trauma, often during sexual activity. Surgical intervention is the primary treatment, followed by a gradual return to normal activities. Adherence to post-operative instructions and open communication with healthcare providers are essential for a successful recovery and the prevention of potential complications.

AndroNeo @NU Hospitals in Bangalore provides advanced treatment for penile fractures. Their experienced team specializing in reproductive health ensures precision and expertise in handling delicate cases. If you’re dealing with a fractured penis, reach out to specialists at AndroNeo for expert care and recovery.