What is Penile Fracture??
A penile fracture happens when the tissue inside the penis tears due to a sudden, forceful bend during an erection. This rare injury affects about 1 in 175,000 emergency cases, though some may go unreported because people hesitate to seek help.
What causes it?
It usually happens during sex when the penis hits something hard, like a partner’s pelvic bone. Other causes include:
- Masturbation
- Bending the penis to reduce an erection
- Accidental injury or direct hits
What happens inside the body?
When erect, the penis’s outer tissue (the tunica albuginea) becomes thin and stretched, making it easier to tear. This exposes the spongy tissue inside (corpora cavernosa), and sometimes the urethra (the tube for urine) is also damaged.
Signs to watch for:
- A “pop” sound during the injury
- Sudden pain and loss of erection
- Swelling, bruising, or a bent shape
Can the urethra be injured too?
Yes, in 10–30% of cases. Symptoms include blood in the urine, pain while urinating, or trouble urinating. Sometimes, there are no symptoms, so doctors may need imaging tests to confirm the issue.
How is it treated?
Doctors recommend surgery as the best treatment. It repairs the damaged tissue and restores the penis’s structure and function. Without surgery, complications like permanent bending, pain, or erectile dysfunction are common.
Why act fast?
Quick treatment gives the best chance of avoiding long-term problems. If you suspect a penile fracture, call us immediately. We are here for you!