Penile fracture in the general hospital of Mexico: prevalence and case series

Abstract

Penile fracture is a rare urological emergency and a condition rarely reported in the literature. This lesion is produced by a break in the continuity of the tunica albuginea of corpora cavernosa, due to trauma to the erect penis. When the fracture occurs, patients may report a popping sound followed by severe pain, bruising, ecchymosis, and deformity. Diagnosis is based primarily on clinical history and examination; in some cases, ultrasound may be useful to confirm the diagnosis. It is a urological emergency that requires adequate and prompt attention in order to prevent serious sexual complications. Below, we present a series of 18 cases of penile fracture that were treated at the General Hospital of Mexico, with emphasis on sexual function after surgical repair.