Penile Shunt / Aspiration

Why is it done?

• Prolonged painful erections lasting > 4-6 hours.
• Usually associated with drug use.
• Usually associated with intracavernosal administration of Erectile Dysfunction drugs.
• You would have conservative measures, i.e. Icepacks, Pseudo-ephedrine tablets etc.

How is it done?

• This procedure is done under general anesthetic.
• Supine position.
• The penis is surgically prepared.
• 2 large-bore cannulas are placed through the glans penis into the Corpora Cavernosa.
• Old clotted blood is drained until flaccid.
• The corpora is rinsed with saline.
• A weak mixture of Ephedrine may also be used to rinse the Corpora Cavernosa.
• Should this not be effective, a scalpel can be placed to cut the CC to create a short circuit with the CS.
• This may have erectile dysfunction as a result.
• If the priapism is deflated, the procedure is completed by placing an Indwelling Catheter and an elasticated compression bandage for a few hours.

What to expect after the procedure?

• Any anesthetic has its risks, and the anesthetist will explain such risks.
• Bleeding is a possible complication.
• Your catheter will be removed on Day 2-3.
• Recurrent priapism requiring more than 1 intervention.
• The possibility of permanent Erectile Dysfunction.

What next?

• Dressings should be kept dry for the initial 72 hours after surgery and soaked off in a bath thereafter.
• The catheter will be removed after 3 days.
• Patients should schedule a follow-up appointment with Dr Schoeman 4-6 weeks after the procedure.
• An arteriogram may be recommended to exclude AV-Fistulas.
• There will be signs of bruising for at least 10 days.
• PLEASE CONTACT THE HOSPITAL DIRECTLY WITH ANY POST-OPERATIVE CONCERNS AND RETURN TO THE HOSPITAL IMMEDIATELY SHOULD THERE BE ANY SIGNS OF SEPSIS and RETURN OF PRIAPISM.

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Wes Penile Shunt Aspiration