By Dr. Chinta SidharthanMay 26 2024Reviewed by Benedette Cuffari, M.Sc. In a recent study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research, researchers analyze nationwide inpatient data provided by the Federal Bureau of Statistics of Germany to evaluate the in-hospital outcomes and overall trends in cases of high- and low-flow priapism. These data were used to better understand potential treatment and management measures for both conditions.
Ischemic priapism is the low-flow type where venous outflow from the penis is obstructed, thus resulting in hypoxia and eventual necrosis in the corpora cavernosa. Low-flow priapism is often caused by hematological ailments such as sickle cell disease or the use of erectile agents. However, in rare cases, ischemic priapism can be caused by infections, metabolic disorders, recreational drugs, and neoplasms.
As secondary outcomes, the researchers also assessed any complications that could have occurred in the hospital, including admission into the intensive care unit or the need for a blood transfusion. They also examined the duration of hospitalization for patients with ischemic or non-ischemic priapism.
Related StoriesThe incidences of diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease were also higher among low-flow priapism patients as compared to those with high-flow priapism. Among the patients with ischemic priapism, 2.4% had developed the condition due to sickle cell disease. These patients were also significantly younger, with a median age of 22 years, as compared to other ischemic priapism patients, and had lower rates of chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and hypertension.
Among patients with non-ischemic priapism, 18.7% required artery embolization. However, the median age of patients requiring artery embolization was lower than that of patients who were treated for the condition conservatively.