ABSTRACT
Introduction and importance: Penile strangulation is a medical emergency characterized by the encirclement of the penis by an external object, resulting in circulatory compromise. Case presentation: A 35-year-old male presented with penile pain and urinary obstruction due to the inability to remove the ring. Upon examination, the ring was firmly lodged at the base of the penis, causing significant swelling and discoloration in the distal region. Interventions and outcomes: Initial attempts to cut the ring using standard tools were unsuccessful, leading to the engagement of a rescue team equipped with an air cutter. The cutting procedure, complicated by the ring's thickness and hardness and the significant edema, took ~90 min. Safety measures, including the use of a surgical brain spatula and forceps, were employed to protect the penile skin from damage during the operation. Relevance and impact: This case underscores the necessity for timely intervention in penile strangulation cases and highlights the effectiveness of collaboration with specialized rescue teams equipped with appropriate cutting tools. It also emphasizes the importance of safety considerations when employing nonmedical devices in medical emergencies. The patient experienced a favorable outcome, with significant improvement in swelling and discoloration postprocedure, and no complications during follow-up. This report contributes to the limited but crucial literature on managing penile strangulation, particularly regarding the methods and timeframes for safely removing constricting objects.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Penile fractures, though rare, demand urgent surgical attention due to their potentially severe consequences. This case report illustrates the significance of prompt and comprehensive imaging with surgical exploration in managing a delayed presentation of a double penile fracture. CASE PRESENTATION: A 27-year-old male sustained a penile injury during sleep, presenting to our department 36 h post-trauma. His clinical symptoms included significant penile swelling, deviation, and the characteristic 'eggplant' deformity. Ultrasonography revealed extensive subcutaneous edema and a substantial hematoma at the penile base, with a disruption in the tunica albuginea. Surgical exploration identified two distinct fractures in the corpora cavernosa, which were successfully repaired. The patient experienced a rapid and complication-free recovery, regaining full erectile function within four days. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: This case underlines the anatomical complexity of penile fractures. Despite the delay in seeking medical attention, the outcome was favorable, challenging the notion that immediate surgery is crucial for avoiding long-term complications. The literature suggests that delayed surgery might not significantly impact long-term outcomes, especially in the absence of urethral involvement, a perspective supported by our case findings. CONCLUSION: Penile fracture requires a nuanced approach to diagnosis and treatment. The case demonstrates that while immediate surgical intervention is ideal, delayed repair can also result in positive outcomes under certain conditions. This report contributes to the growing body of evidence suggesting the potential for re-evaluating current clinical guidelines for penile fracture management.
