Abrupt bending of the erect penis can result in a tear in the tunica albuginea (the lining of the erectile bodies). This results in the instantaneous loss of the erection. In extreme cases, a tear in the urethra (urine channel) can also occur.
Penile fracture is considered a urologic emergency and when a penile fracture is suspected an urgent urologic consultation is needed. Failure to repair the tunica albuginea injury is associated with the development of delayed penile curvature and erectile dysfunction (ED).