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Contents
  • Treating Ischemic Priapism
  • Surgical Interventions
  • Managing Nonischemic Priapism

Treating Priapism: From Medications to Surgery

Treating Priapism: From Medications to Surgery

Why It Matters

Prompt and appropriate treatment of priapism is crucial to prevent long-term erectile dysfunction. The approach depends on the type and duration of priapism.
Contents
  • Treating Ischemic Priapism
  • Surgical Interventions
  • Managing Nonischemic Priapism

Treating Ischemic Priapism

For ischemic priapism lasting less than 4 hours, doctors often start with intracavernosal injection of a sympathomimetic drug like phenylephrine. This helps contract blood vessels and reduce blood flow. For cases lasting longer, aspiration of blood from the penis may be necessary, followed by irrigation and medication.

Surgical Interventions

If medication and aspiration don't work, surgery may be needed. This often involves creating a shunt to redirect blood flow. In severe cases lasting more than 48 hours, doctors might consider immediate penile prosthesis implantation to prevent permanent erectile dysfunction.
Priapism is a prolonged erection of the penis, often painful, that occurs without sexual stimulation. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent long-term erectile dysfunction.

Managing Nonischemic Priapism

Nonischemic priapism often resolves on its own and doesn't require immediate treatment. If it persists, doctors might recommend selective arterial embolization to block abnormal blood flow. In rare cases, surgical ligation of the affected artery may be necessary.

FAQs

How effective are medication treatments?

They work in about 80% of cases if used early.

Is surgery always necessary?

No, it's usually a last resort.

Can priapism recur after treatment?

Yes, especially in those with underlying conditions.

The Bottom Line

Early and appropriate treatment of priapism is key to preserving sexual function and overall well-being.
Concerned about priapism treatment options? Consult with Doctronic for personalized information and advice.
Additional References
  1. Montague DK, Jarow J, Broderick GA, et al. American Urological Association guideline on the management of priapism. J Urol 2003; 170:1318.
  2. Ridyard DG, Phillips EA, Vincent W, Munarriz R. Use of High-Dose Phenylephrine in the Treatment of Ischemic Priapism: Five-Year Experience at a Single Institution. J Sex Med 2016; 13:1704.
  3. Ralph DJ, Garaffa G, Muneer A, et al. The immediate insertion of a penile prosthesis for acute ischaemic priapism. Eur Urol 2009; 56:1033.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.