Priapism Treatment

Priapism is a rare but serious medical condition characterized by a prolonged and painful erection that lasts for more than four hours without sexual stimulation. It requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications. In this blog, we will discuss what priapism is, its types, symptoms, causes, when to seek medical help, and the treatment options available in India.

1. Symptoms of Priapism

The main symptom of priapism is a persistent erection lasting longer than four hours without sexual arousal. Additional symptoms depend on the type of priapism:
Ischemic (Low-flow) Priapism:
  • A painful, prolonged erection (usually lasting over four hours).
  • The erection is often rigid and does not subside with sexual stimulation or ejaculation.
  • Discomfort or tenderness in the penis.
  • Swelling and enlargement of the penis.
  • Discoloration (often described as dusky or purplish).
2.Non-ischemic (High-flow) Priapism:
  • A prolonged, painless erection (lasting several hours or even days).
  • The erection may not be as firm as in ischemic priapism.
  • Often occurs after an injury to the perineum or genital area, which disrupts blood flow regulation.

Priapism is a medical emergency, particularly ischemic priapism, which can lead to permanent penile tissue damage and erectile dysfunction if left untreated. Non-ischemic priapism may resolve on its own but should still be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Causes of Priapism

Priapism can be categorized into two types: ischemic (low-flow) and non-ischemic (high-flow), with different causes for each.

1.Ischemic (Low-flow) Priapism:
  • Sickle Cell Disease:This genetic blood disorder causes abnormal red blood cells that block blood flow in the penis, leading to priapism.
  • Leukemia: Cancerous cells can disrupt normal blood flow, contributing to priapism.
  • Medications: Drugs used for erectile dysfunction, psychiatric disorders, or hypertension can trigger priapism.
  • Trauma: Injury to the genital or perineal area can result in blood clots or vascular damage, leading to priapism.
2. Non-ischemic (High-flow) Priapism:
  • Penile or Pelvic Trauma:Injuries to arteries or veins, such as a pelvic fracture or ruptured blood vessels, can cause high-flow priapism.
  • Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM): An abnormal connection between arteries and veins in the penis can cause excessive blood flow and priapism.

Treatment of Priapism in India

Treatment options for priapism in India depend on the type and duration of the condition. Here are the most common treatment methods:

Medical Management:
  • Intracavernous Injections:Medications like phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine may be injected directly into the penis to constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow.
  • Oral Medications: Alpha-agonists like terbutaline or pseudoephedrine can be taken orally to relieve priapism.
  • Analgesics: Pain relief medications may be prescribed to alleviate discomfort.

Aspiration and Irrigation:

This procedure involves using a needle and syringe to remove excess blood from the penis (aspiration) and flushing the penile blood vessels with a saline solution (irrigation). It is typically performed under local anesthesia.

Surgery:
  • Shunt Surgeries:A bypass is created between the corpora cavernosa (erectile tissue) and the corpora spongiosum (spongy tissue) to allow blood to flow out and relieve the priapism.
  • Cavernosal-Spongiosal Shunt: A connection between the corpus cavernosum and the urethra is created to help drain blood and relieve priapism.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT):

In some cases, HBOT may be used. This therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber to increase blood oxygen levels and promote tissue healing.

Prompt medical attention is crucial for priapism to avoid complications such as erectile dysfunction or permanent tissue damage. Consulting a urologist or a sexual medicine specialist is essential to receive an accurate diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment.

Cost of Priapism Treatment in India

The cost of priapism treatment in India can vary based on factors like the healthcare facility, location, the expertise of the medical team, and the chosen treatment method. Below are indicative costs for priapism and related treatments in India:

Treatment Cost Start From($) Hospital Stay
Priapism Treatment 1700 - 2300 1 - 2 Days
Penile Implant Surgery 2,800 - 6,200 0-1 Day

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ's)

Yes, the package includes food and accommodation while the patient is in the hospital. After discharge, we assist in finding affordable, nearby accommodation. The patient will cover costs if they choose to stay outside the hospital.

You can opt for shared accommodations (e.g., double or more beds) or choose a hospital from a lower category to reduce costs.

Payment is flexible; you can choose to pay before or after arriving in India. If you wish to pay in advance, we will share the online payment details.

Important Notes

  • Prices are subject to change without notice.
  • These are indicative prices and may vary depending on the patient's condition at the time of admission.
  • A final estimate will be provided upon admission.

Priapism is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to avoid complications such as erectile dysfunction. If you or someone you know is suffering from priapism, seeking treatment from experienced urologists in India can help provide relief and prevent long-term damage. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care.

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