Adolescent Penile Fracture with Isolated Unilateral Tunica Albuginea Rupture Without Urethral Injury: A Case Report

Abstract

Aims: This report described a rare case of penile fracture in an adolescent and to emphasise the importance of prompt recognition, anatomical assessment, evaluation of urethral integrity, and timely surgical repair. Case Presentation: A previously healthy 16-year-old male presented approximately 24 hours after blunt trauma to an erect penis with severe penile pain, progressive swelling, and the characteristic “eggplant deformity”. He had no urethral bleeding or haematuria. Ultrasonography demonstrated a breach in the tunica albuginea of the right corpus cavernosum with an adjacent haematoma. Emergency surgical exploration identified an approximately 1-cm dorsolateral tear of the mid-shaft tunica albuginea of the right corpus cavernosum and a 10–15 mL haematoma. The urethra was intact. The defect was repaired primarily with interrupted 3-0 polyglactin sutures, and an artificial erection test confirmed a watertight repair. The postoperative course was uncomplicated. Discussion: Penile fracture is uncommon in adolescents but should be considered when acute penile pain, swelling, deformity, and a history of trauma to an erect penis are present. Ultrasonography may provide useful anatomical confirmation when required, while urethral integrity requires specific assessment. Early surgical exploration, haematoma evacuation, and primary tunical repair remain the preferred management for confirmed penile fracture. Conclusion: This case illustrates an isolated unilateral tunica albuginea rupture without urethral involvement in an adolescent, with an uncomplicated early outcome after prompt surgical repair.