Priapism

Priapism is an uncommon disorder in male cats and dogs. It is characterized by a persistent penile erection that lasts for more than 1 hour resulting in pain and dysuria. The penis is attached to the ischial arch by the crura and ischiocavernous muscles. Erection occurs when there is an increase in cavernosal arterial blood flow coupled with decreased venous outflow from the corpora via the dorsal penile vein resulting in sinusoidal relaxation and filling of the corpora cavernosa. Priapism is most likely to develop secondary to trauma during mating or during castration. Other causes of priapism can be categorized as either high-flow or low-flow. Other than direct examination, the diagnosis is made using ultrasound and radiography. Priapism is an emergency condition requiring aggressive acute treatment to induce detumescence. Conservative surgical treatment for arteriovenous fistulas involves ligating the proximal supplying vessels to reduce blood flow through the fistula.