Sexual function outcomes following fracture of the penis

• Published in: Canadian Urological Association journal Vol. 7; no. 7-8; pp. 252 - 257
• Main Authors: Nason, Gregory J, McGuire, Barry B, Liddy, Stephen, Looney, Aisling, Lennon, Gerald M, Mulvin, David W, Galvin, David J, Quinlan, David M
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Canada Canadian Medical Association 01-07-2013
• Subjects: Original Research
• ISSN: 1911-6470; 1920-1214
• DOI: 10.5489/cuaj.199

Fracture of the penis is a rare urological emergency which occurs as a result of abrupt trauma to an erect penis. There is paucity of data regarding long-term sexual function or erectile potency following fracture of the penis. The aim of this study is to objectively assess the overall sexual function following fracture of the penis.
A retrospective analysis of 21 penile fractures was performed. A voluntary telephone questionnaire was performed to assess long term outcomes using three validated questionnaires-the Erection Hardness Grading Scale, the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and the Brief Male Sexual Function inventory (BMSFI).
The mean age was 33.1 years (range: 19-63). The median follow up was 46 months (range: 3-144). All fractures were a result of sexual misadventure and all were surgically repaired. There were two concomitant urethral injuries. Seventeen patients were contactable. Fourteen patients demonstrated no evidence of erectile dysfunction (ED) (IIEF-5>22), 1 patient reported symptoms of mild ED (IIEF-5, 17-21) and one patient reported mild to moderate ED (IIEF-5, 12-16). No patients reported insufficient erection for penetration (EHGS: 1 or 2). Regarding the overall BMSFI, 13 (83%) patients were mostly satisfied or very satisfied with their sex life within the previous month.
In a small surgical series of men with penile fracture managed within a short time frame from presentation, we demonstrate erectile potency is maintained. Long-term overall sexual satisfaction is promising.