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Priapism Therapy

Priapism is a condition characterised by a prolonged erection of the penis that can occur with or without sexual stimulation. It is not a sexually transmitted infection but is often associated with certain underlying health conditions or medications. Effective management through priapism therapy is essential to treat this condition. Priapism most commonly affects children aged 5 to 10 and adults between the ages of 20 and 50 years. If left untreated, this condition might result in tissue damage and erectile dysfunction.

Priapism Therapy

Types of Priapism

To provide effective treatment, a priapism specialist first identifies the type of priapism that is present. The three primary types are:

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Ischemic Priapism:

Also referred to as low-flow priapism, it occurs when blood becomes trapped in the penis. It causes a rigid erection lasting more than four hours and can lead to permanent damage if left untreated.

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Non-ischemic Priapism:

Also referred to as high-flow priapism, it occurs when a significant amount of blood enters the penis. It is less painful and carries a lower risk of long-term damage.

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Recurrent Priapism:

A form of low-flow priapism, it involves repeated, painful erections lasting minutes to hours that often resolve without intervention.

Symptoms of Priapism

The primary symptom of priapism is an erection lasting more than four hours. Other symptoms can differ depending on the type of priapism.

Low-flow Priapism 

  • Rigid erection with a soft tip (glans)
  • Pain that worsens over time

High-flow Priapism 

  • Erect penile shaft, but not fully rigid
  • Little to no pain

Causes of Priapism

Common causes of priapism include: 

  • Blood Disorders: Conditions such as leukaemia, sickle cell disease, and thalassemia are often associated with priapism, especially the low-flow type.
  • Medications: Medications used to treat erectile dysfunction (e.g., alprostadil), antidepressants, and other mental health treatments may increase the risk of priapism.
  • Trauma: Injuries to the penis, pelvic area, or perineum are known causes of nonischemic priapism.
  • Metabolic or Neurological Disorders: Conditions like gout and neurological issues may also contribute to the occurrence of priapism.
  • Alcohol and Drug Use: Substances such as alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, and other drugs can trigger priapism, particularly low-flow priapism.
treatment of priapism

Diagnosis of Priapism

Priapism specialists use the following tests to determine the underlying cause and  appropriate treatment:

  • Penile Blood Gas Measurement: This test involves taking a blood sample from the penis to determine the type of priapism. Dark blood indicates low-flow priapism, while bright red blood suggests high-flow priapism.
  • Blood Tests: These tests help identify underlying conditions that may contribute to priapism, such as sickle cell anaemia or leukaemia.
  • Doppler Ultrasound: This imaging technique assess the blood flow in the penis and may reveal injuries or other factors contributing to the symptoms.

Complications of Priapism

If left untreated, priapism can lead to:

  • Erectile Dysfunction: Prolonged priapism, especially low-flow priapism, can lead to long-term erectile dysfunction.
  • Tissue Damage: If blood remains trapped in the penis for too long, it can cause irreversible tissue damage.
  • Scarring: Chronic or untreated priapism can result in scarring of penile tissues, leading to deformity or further sexual complications.

Treatment for Priapism

Priapism treatment, or priapism therapy, varies based on the type of priapism, as each requires a different approach.

For Ischemic Priapism

  • Intracavernous Drug Therapy: This treatment involves injecting alpha-agonists, such as diluted neosynephrine, into the penis to open veins and restore normal blood circulation.
  • Shunt Surgery: A surgical shunt may be performed if drug therapy is ineffective. This procedure creates an alternate pathway for the trapped blood to flow out of the penis, restoring normal blood circulation.

For Ischemic Priapism

  • Embolisation: This involves inserting specially designed coils, glues, or spheres into the ruptured artery to reduce blood flow to the penis and alleviate the condition.
  • Surgical Ligation: In surgical ligation, the ruptured artery is tied off to help restore normal blood flow to the penis.

Treatment Process for Priapism at KHPL

At Dr Kamaraj Hospital, we offer a thorough, step-by-step approach to diagnosing and treating priapism.

Step 1:
Thorough Evaluation

We conduct detailed assessments, including reviewing medical history, conducting physical exams, and using advanced diagnostic tests to determine the cause and type of priapism.

Step 2:
Customised Treatment Plan

Based on test results, Dr Kamaraj and his team create a personalised treatment plan to address the underlying cause of priapism.

Step 3:
Ongoing Monitoring and Support

We provide continuous monitoring to assess the effectiveness of priapism therapy and offer support throughout the recovery process.

Why Choose Us?

  • At Dr Kamaraj Hospital for Men’s Health and Wellness, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment for priapism.
  • Using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and a range of effective treatment options, we ensure the highest quality of care.
  • Our team offers personalised support to manage and treat priapism, prioritising your comfort and well-being.
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FAQs

What is priapism?
Priapism is a condition where an erection lasts for hours without any sexual stimulation. It requires medical attention to prevent complications.
Non-ischemic priapism might resolve without treatment, but ischemic priapism requires immediate medical intervention to prevent permanent damage.
Treatment for priapism may include medication, surgical procedures, or observation, depending on whether the condition is ischemic (low-flow), non-ischemic (high-flow), or recurrent.

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Best Sexologist in Chennai Dr. T Kamaraj

Dr. T. Kamaraj

Sexologist & Male Infertility Specialist

MBBS degree and advanced qualifications in obstetrics and gynaecology
Infertility Specialist Dr. J S Jeyarani Kamaraj

Dr. J. S. Jeyarani Kamaraj

Infertility Specialist

MBBS degree and advanced qualifications in obstetrics and genecology, including an MD and a Diploma in Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGO)