Priapism

Priapism refers to an erection which lasts for more than 4 hours and which is not due to sexual excitation. It is not relieved by ejaculation.

• Low-flow priapism
  • Due to inadequate venous drainage
    • Sildenafil, sickle cell disease, other drugs, thrombosis, etc.
  • Treatment
    • Cavernosal aspiration and irrigation
    • Phenylephrine
    • Surgery
• High-flow priapism
  • Not as urgent as low-flow, not painful
  • Due to excessive arterial inflow
    • Injury -> fistula between artery and corpus cavernosum
  • Treatment
    • Ice pack
    • Embolization of the fistula
    • Surgery