Superficial dorsal penile vein rupture mimicking penile fracture

Abstract

Introduction: Superficial dorsal penile vein rupture is a rare penile emergency that mimics penile fracture. Many times, diagnosis will be uncertain as they both have similar symptoms and signs. Delay in treatment of penile fracture can lead to long-term sequelae like erectile dysfunction and thus prompt diagnosis and treatment are required. Case Report: We report a case of a 35-year-old male patient with acute penile swelling and ecchymosis which developed during sexual intercourse suggesting penile fracture. Surgical exploration revealed rupture of superficial dorsal penile vein and no corporal injury. Hematoma was evacuated and vein was ligated. The patient had a good prognosis and reported maintained erectile function. Conclusion: Superficial dorsal penile vein rupture is a rare penile emergency which usually has similar clinical features of penile fracture and hence called false penile fracture. If diagnosis is uncertain, surgical exploration is recommended for definitive diagnosis and to prevent potential long-term sequelae of untreated penile fracture.