Many people are surprised to learn that, although the penis has no bone, it is still possible to experience a penile fracture. This rare but serious injury can result from sudden trauma to an erect penis, leading to potential complications if not treated promptly by a healthcare professional. Here’s a closer look at how penile fractures occur, the symptoms to watch for, and the importance of immediate medical attention.
What Causes a Penile Fracture?
A penile fracture occurs due to a rupture that causes a chamber of the penis to fill with blood. While it might sound surprising, this injury is often the result of a sudden bending or force applied to an erect penis. The most common cause is vigorous sexual activity, where the penis accidentally hits a hard surface, like the partner’s pelvic bone, causing a rupture. Other causes may include:
Falls
Intense or aggressive self-stimulation
Rare accidents where trauma occurs to an erect penis
In some exceptional cases, a severe blow to a flaccid penis—such as in an accident—can also cause a fracture, although this is extremely rare.
Recognizing the Symptoms of a Penile Fracture
Several immediate, telltale signs usually mark a penile fracture. The following symptoms are common indicators:
Sharp, intense pain: Pain in the penis usually comes on suddenly and severely.
A “popping” sound: This audible sign often accompanies the injury.
Swelling and bruising: Internal bleeding can cause the affected area to become swollen, often taking on a purple or “eggplant” hue.
Sudden loss of erection: The inability to maintain an erection often occurs right after the injury.
Discoloration and bleeding: In some cases, blood may appear at the tip of the penis, especially if the urethra (the tube inside the penis) is also damaged.
These symptoms typically appear immediately following the injury, making it reasonably easy to identify a potential fracture.
Treatment for Penile Fractures: What to Expect
If you experience symptoms of a penile fracture, it’s essential to seek medical help without delay. Doctors at the ER will confirm a penile fracture with a clinical exam along with tests such as an urethrogram, an MRI scan, or a cavernosogram, which is an x-ray of the penis. It’s possible a cystoscopy may also be necessary. This procedure uses a hollow tube equipped with a lens to look directly inside the urethra to determine if it’s actually tore or not. Once diagnosed, surgery where a surgeon carefully stitches the damaged blood chamber to restore proper function, may be needed to repair the tissue in the penis which will be done either the same day or shortly thereafter. Following surgery, four to six weeks of recovery is typically recommended. During this time, doctors usually advise avoiding any activities that could lead to an erection, as this can interfere with the healing process. The longer a man waits for repairs to be made, the more difficult it will be to repair it as scarring will start to form. Scarring can lead to a curve in the penis when a man has an erection, or men may find they have erectile dysfunction (ED) since the tissue that normally holds blood in with an erection is damaged.
Why Immediate Medical Care is Essential
Penile fractures are not injuries that heal on their own. Delaying treatment can increase the risk of long-term complications, such as erectile dysfunction, painful erections, or abnormal curvature of the penis. Beyond these physical effects, a penile fracture can also lead to significant distress. Medical professionals can provide pain management and surgical intervention to alleviate both the pain and any associated anxiety, ensuring a safer recovery.
When to Reach Out to a Healthcare Professional
If you suspect you’ve sustained a penile fracture, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial. Whether through your doctor or a visit to the emergency room, addressing the injury right away can significantly improve outcomes and minimize the chance of future complications.If you have concerns about a penile injury or think you may have symptoms of a fracture, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider. Getting the proper care as soon as possible can help protect your long-term health and well-being.Dr. David Samadiis the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, Prostate Cancer Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncolo gy and prostate cancer 911.
