Posttraumatic Arterial Priapism Treated with Superselective Embolization: Our Clinical Experience and a Review of the Literature

Abstract

Introduction

To present 12 cases of arterial priapism treated by superselective embolization and propose our management algorithm for this condition.

Methods

Between February 2013 and May 2018, 12 cases of arterial priapism caused by blunt trauma were treated by superselective embolization. The mean age of patients was 36 years (25–47 years). All of the patients had normal sexual capability before priapism (IIEF-5 scores 24–25). All patients were treated with superselective embolization after more than 3 weeks of simple conservative treatment had failed. All cases but one used a gelatin sponge as embolic agent. A microcoil was added in one case in which the gelatin sponge failed to occlude the pseudoaneurysm. After superselective embolization, ice pack and "observation" treatments continued. The sexual capability of the patients was evaluated by IIEF-5 scores at 6 months and 12 months postoperatively.

Results

The mean follow-up period was 27.2 months (13–48 months). Three patients achieved complete detumescence immediately. Nine cases needed 2–17 days to return to a flaccid nonpainful state. No patient underwent a second embolization. The time needed to improve erectile function was from 7 days to 4 months. There has been no recurrence. Eleven patients treated with gelatin sponge have normal erectile function, while one patient treated with additional microcoil embolization had mild erectile dysfunction.

Conclusion

Superselective embolization of the fistula is an effective option for arterial priapism. Absorbable agents should be used. Superselective arterial embolization should be considered after 3 weeks of conservative treatment. Patients should undergo another 3 weeks of "observation" treatment before repeated intervention.

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