What happens when a permanent erection?

To understand the processes involved in a permanent erection, it is useful to illustrate the process of a normal running erection. A penile erection is a complex interplay of psychological nervous, hormonal and vascular (blood vessels in question) factors.


Cavernosum penis is flaccid with empty
The smooth, involuntary muscle cells can influence in the cavities of the corpora cavernosa (corpora cavernosa) in the state not erect tense. As with the known upper arm muscle forms a "belly". The inflowing arterial blood is found in the "compressed" hardly cavernous space. At the same time the blood is discharged freely through the veins, so that the penis is flaccid state not erect.


With an erect penis, the erectile tissue filled with blood
Dissolves the tension of the smooth muscle cells, it comes to an erection, because the arterial blood pumped freely into the extensive vasculature of the corpora cavernous is. By increasing the flow of blood pressure on the veins, which are so tied. This will only slow down the blood again derived from the corpora cavernous. In this way, the erectile tissue can be very hard. After ejaculation, the arteries are too close together again, the pressure on the veins on leaves and therefore the erection of the penis.


Types of priapism


Of how this process can be disrupted in priapism in different ways, so that a permanent erection is reached:

    Low flow type (90 percent of cases): The affected there is a congestion of blood in the corpora cavernosa, because the venous drainage is impaired. The side of the erectile tissue is not stiff cavernosa urethras and the acorn is not. Due to the enormous pressure of the surrounding erectile tissue is not perfused. Occurs as a result of a paralysis of the smooth muscles of the corpora cavernosa. This in turn increases the inflow of arterial blood pressure even further and continues to rise. It creates a vicious circle. After about 12 hours, there is such a strong lack of oxygen in tissues that adjust themselves irreparable damage. This can lead to a permanently existing erectile dysfunction. A low-flow priapism is very painful.
    High flow type (10 percent of cases): The blood flow through the arteries is increased. This form causes less pain, the corpora cavernosa are less taut. The risk of permanent damage caused is less.