genitourinary disorders
Priapism
Pathophysiology of Priapism
The penis is composed of 3 corporeal bodies: 2 corpora cavernosa and 1 corpus spongiosum. Erection is the result of smooth muscle relaxation and increased arterial flow into the corpora cavernosa, causing engorgement and rigidity. 4 hours, priapism can lead to corporeal fibrosis and subsequent Erectile Dysfunction or even penile necrosis and gangrene. Stuttering priapismis a recurrent form of ischemic priapism with repeated episodes and intervening periods of detumescence. Less commonly, priapism is due to unregulated arterial inflow (ie, high flow), usually as a result of formation of an arterial fistula after trauma. Nonischemic priapism is not painful and does not lead to necrosis. Subsequent erectile dysfunction is common. 