Penile gangrene due to strangulation by a metallic nut: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Penile entrapment and subsequent strangulation is a serious injury that requires a prompt treatment to avoid gangrene.

OBJECTIVE

We report our experience dealing with a case of penile gangrene following strangulation by a metallic nut in a middle aged Nigerian.

METHODS

We summarise the case history, physical findings, investigations and operative treatment of a middle aged man who slipped a round metallic nut over his penis, entrapping it for five days causing strangulation and subsequent gangrene. The literature on penile entrapment, strangulation and gangrene is also reviewed.

RESULTS

The patient presented with acute urinary retention and had complete gangrene of the penis. Suprapubic cystostomy was done and he had total penile amputation and perineal urethrostomy

CONCLUSION

Entrapment of the penis leading to strangulation is a rare condition that needs urgent relief, otherwise penile gangrene sets in, the treatment of which has very serious consequences.