Severe penile injury due to condom catheter fixed by a rubber band: A case report

Condom catheters are considered as a safe tool in the management of male urinary incontinence, yet complications may occur, especially in debilitated patients, with psychiatric disorders.

A 58-year-old paraplegic man, suffering from schizophrenia, who had been using condom urinary catheters, was referred to our department for "penile injury". Interrogation revealed that he was placing a rubber band tightly around his penis to maintain the condom. Examination showed a 4 cm defect interesting the proximal portion of the penis including the corpus spongiosum and the urethra. A surgical repair was performed, consisting in covering the defect using the surrounding tissue. Unfortunately, the patient developed penile gangrene four weeks after surgery. A partial penectomy was performed.

Condom catheters are known as a safe tool to manage urinary incontinence in male patients, providing an adequate care. Long-term use may result in complications including urinary tract infection (40%) and skin injuries ranging from inflammation to gangrene. Gangrene, secondary to strangulation of the penis, is however uncommon. These complications are more common in debilitated patients with poor medical care or psychiatric disorders. In case of necrosis, debridement should be performed, which may result in a partial or a total penectomy if necessary.

Condom catheter is frequently used to manage male urinary incontinence but it should not be used carelessly or overlooked as it can cause severe complications such as penile strangulation and penile gangrene.