Fournier's gangrene in a patient with erectile dysfunction following use of a mechanical erection aid device.

A case of Fournier's gangrene is presented following the use of a constriction ring in a patient with erectile dysfunction. The necrotizing inflammation started at the skin of the penile shaft and spread over the entire scrotal area. Total scrotectomy and excision of the skin of the penile shaft were necessary. This case demonstrates that mechanical constriction devices applied to create or maintain a penile erection are not as free of adverse affects as they are generally believed to be. Physicians who treat patients using these devices should be aware of such severe complications.