Management of Fractures of the Corpora Cavernosa at the University Clinic of Urology and Andrology at Cnhu-Hkm in Cotonou

Abstract

Background: Penile fracture is a rare accident whose diagnosis relies on a stereotyped history and a physical examination. Early surgical intervention is recommended. In Africa, as well as in Benin, research on this pathology is limited due to likely underreporting, possibly linked to cultural factors. Objectives: This study aims to examine the epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic, and evolutionary aspects of penile fracture. Methods: It is a retrospective and descriptive study collecting records of patients treated and followed for penile fracture at the Urology Department of CNHU-HKM in Cotonou between January 2010 and March 2021. Results: Over the course of 10 years, 23 cases of penile fracture were identified, representing a frequency of 2.3 cases per year. The average age of patients was 35 years, with a predominance of married individuals (n=17). Coital misstep was the primary circumstance of occurrence (n=15). The cracking sound (n=14), pain (n=23), swelling of the penis (n=16), and detumescence (n=23) were the main clinical signs. The average time to medical intervention was 13 hours. Surgical treatment with a circumferential approach under the coronal ridge was employed for all patients. The average duration of hospitalization was 60 hours. The prevalence of erectile dysfunction was 8.7% (IIEF-5). Conclusion: Penile fracture is a rare traumatic emergency. Diagnosis is facilitated by a stereotyped clinical presentation. Early surgical intervention is the optimal treatment for a favorable functional outcome.