A fractured penis is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention in most cases. Failure to seek treatment promptly can result in permanent damage, including nerve injury, erectile dysfunction, and urinary problems.

This article explores the symptoms of a fractured penis, the risks involved, the surgical approach, and the recovery process.

What Causes a Fractured Penis?

A fractured penis occurs when the shaft of the penis sustains blunt trauma during sexual intercourse or masturbation.

The injury usually happens when the penis is erect, and a forceful bending or twisting motion causes a tear in the tunica albuginea, a fibrous sheath that covers the erectile tissue.

Some factors that increase the risk of a fractured penis include:.

Rough sex
Intense thrusting
Abnormal penis curvature
Penis enlargement devices
Peyronie’s disease

Symptoms of a Fractured Penis

The symptoms of a fractured penis may vary depending on the severity of the injury. Some common signs and symptoms include:.

Audible popping or cracking sound
Sudden pain during sex or masturbation
Loss of erection
Swelling and bruising
Blood in the urine
Crooked or bent penis
Inability to void urine

Risks of a Fractured Penis

Ignoring a fractured penis can lead to complications that affect your sexual and urinary health. Some of the risks include:.

Nerve damage: A fractured penis can damage the nerves that control sensation and function in the penis, leading to incomplete erections or loss of sensation.
Urinary problems: The urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body, can also sustain injury, resulting in urinary incontinence or difficulty urinating.
Erectile dysfunction: If the tunica albuginea is severely damaged, scar tissue may form that interferes with the blood flow to the penis, leading to erectile dysfunction.
Peyronie’s disease: A fractured penis can trigger Peyronie’s disease, a condition where the penis becomes curved or bent, making sexual intercourse painful or impossible.

Surgical Approach

A fractured penis is an emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Most cases require surgical intervention to repair the torn tunica albuginea and prevent long-term damage.

The surgery is generally performed under general anesthesia and involves the following steps:.

The surgeon makes a small incision in the penis to expose the tunica albuginea.
The torn edges of the tunica albuginea are approximated and sutured together using absorbable sutures.
A catheter is inserted into the urethra to drain urine from the bladder and prevent urinary retention.
The penis is wrapped in a compression bandage to minimize swelling.

Recovery Process

The recovery process for a fractured penis can take up to six weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. During the recovery period, it is recommended to:.

Take pain medication as prescribed by your doctor.
Avoid sexual intercourse or masturbation for at least six weeks to allow the penis to heal properly.
Avoid strenuous activities that may cause pain or discomfort.
Apply ice packs to the penis to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Monitor the catheter and follow the instructions for cleaning and care.

Conclusion

A fractured penis is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention to avoid nerve damage, erectile dysfunction, and urinary problems. Symptoms of a fractured penis include pain, swelling, and bruising.

If you suspect that you have fractured your penis, seek medical attention immediately. Most cases require surgical repair of the tunica albuginea. The recovery process can take up to six weeks, during which time it is recommended to avoid sexual activity and follow your doctor’s instructions for care.