Introduction
Corpus cavernosa injections are bedside procedures used to diagnose and treat penis problems such as Peyronie's disease (scarring and inflammation in the erectile tissue of the penis), erectile dysfunction (a person is unable to maintain an erection to have a satisfying orgasm), and priapism (extended erection duration). The two types of priapism include ischemia (decrease in the blood flow in the penis), and non-ischemic involves high blood flow in the penis. Corpus cavernosa injections are also known as penile injections, intracavernosal injections, and intracavernous injections. These injections can increase the blood flow in the penis. Penile injections can lead to the erection of the penis. These injections will work best if given five to fifteen minutes before erection and are effective if injected properly. Improper injections can lead to penile curvature and nodules in the penis. It is the fastest-acting injection for penis-related problems. The person can take corpus cavernosa injections on their own at home.
Who Can Take Corpus Cavernosa Injections?
The doctor can inject the corpus cavernosa injections into any person who has issues keeping an erection for the desired time, having a penis erection, and achieving stiffness for penetration sex. These injections are very effective in treating penis problems. Penile injections are not given to those people with mild penis erection problems because they can be treated with medications and are not recommended for those people who feel difficulty in performing the injections.
The doctor does not recommend the injections for those people who face difficulty in holding the penis or needle for injection and people with penile scarring (scar tissue in the penis leading to penis curvature) because it may lead to difficulty in locating the proper injection site.
What Are the Types of Medications Used in the Corpus Cavernosa Injections?
The three main medications used in corpus cavernosa injections are Phentolamine, Papaverine, and Prostaglandin E1. The doctor may administer a single medication or in combination. The medications work by widening the blood vessels and relaxing the smooth muscles in the penis. This increases the blood flow in the penis and leads to an erection.
How Can Corpus Cavernosa Injection Be Injected?
Before the Test: The healthcare provider may physically examine the penis and ask the patient about erectile dysfunction. The doctor can also recommend a blood test to check for health concerns such as heart disease and diabetes.
During the Test: The medication is inserted into the insulin-type syringe. Some people use auto-injectors to inject the medicine. The autoinjector is a spring-loaded device that quickly inserts the needle into the penis. It can reduce discomfort and time.
The spongy tissue of the penis, known as corpora cavernosa, is cleaned with an alcohol wipe, and the drugs are injected into the penis. After the medication is injected, the area is pressed firmly on the injection site with alcohol gauze for up to five minutes. The patient may experience an erection within five to 15 minutes. After the erection of the penis, the healthcare provider may look for penis curvature and other deformities. The doctor may use ultrasound to check the blood flow in the penis. If the scan shows that the patient does not get an erection, it may indicate a problem in the blood flow in the penis. The doctor can also recommend an angiogram if the ultrasound does not work.
After the Test: Mild pain, bruising, and swelling can occur at the injection site. If the penis erection lasts more than four hours, the person can visit the healthcare provider immediately. The medication works better when it stands and allows the blood to enter the penis.
What Is the Purpose of Corpus Cavernosa Injections?
The purpose of corpus cavernosa injections is to look for penis problems. In addition, the injections can be used to diagnose pain during erections and penis curvature. This is because, during sexual activity, there is an increase in the blood flow in the penis. For a person to have an erection, there must be an increase in the blood flow in the penis to become erect. These injections remove the stress and psychological barriers to penis erection. They are also helpful in diagnosing penile curvature and any underlying cause related to erectile problems.
What Is the Cost of Corpus Cavernosa Injections?
Corpus cavernosa injections can be covered by insurance. However, the cost of the medications is different from pharmacy to pharmacy. In addition, injections are cheaper and riskier than oral medications.
How Effective Are Corpus Cavernosa Injections for Treating Penile Problems?
Corpus cavernosa injections are very effective in treating penile problems. Penile injections are more effective than oral medications in treating erectile dysfunction. Around 80 % of the males in the world have been satisfied with the results for more than eight years.
What Are the Risks and Complications Associated With Corpus Cavernosa Injections?
The risks and side effects associated with corpus cavernosa injections are as follows:
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During the Procedure: Pain is commonly associated with the process when a penile injection is injected. In addition, there may be bruising or bleeding at the injection site. Proper placement of the injection can help in preventing swelling and irritation. Other side effects include dizziness, headache, blurry vision, an increase in blood pressure, and an increase and decrease in heart rate. The injections can also cause fainting and low blood pressure.
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After the Procedure: Penile nodules and hematoma can develop due to the puncture in the corpora of the penis, but it can be reduced with pressure dressings. The significant risk associated with penile injections is priapism. Priapism is a prolonged erection that occurs for more than four hours without sexual stimulation. Priapism can be treated by placing an ice pack on the penis.
Conclusion
Corpus cavernosa injections are used to treat penis-related issues. There are a variety of options to treat erectile problems that range from injections, pills, and surgery. In addition, the injections are effective in diagnosing sexual health concerns. People should not be hesitant to talk to the doctor about erection issues. Finally, timely treatment can improve patient satisfaction and psychological behavior. The healthcare provider can tell the patient about the injection procedure and its side effects. Getting the correct dose and medications may reduce errors and show good results.
