Successful removal of a 3.6-cm long metal band used as a penile constriction ring.
BACKGROUND
Penile constriction rings are either used for autoerotic stimulus or to increase sexual performance. Potentially, they can become irremovable and cause urologic emergencies.


OBJECTIVE
We describe the successful removal of a 3.6-cm long piece of heavy metal tubing used as a penile constriction ring.


METHODS
An angel grinder was used to open the metal tubing on both lateral sides. During the cutting procedure, the soft tissue parts were protected by two metal spatulas. Wet towels and cool running water prevented thermal injury.


RESULTS
After removal of the band, no iatrogenic injury was visible and the further recovery of the patient remained uneventful. Postoperatively, one of the surgeons suffered from conjunctivitis of the left eye possibly due to metal sparks.


CONCLUSIONS
Depending on the constricting object, heavy-duty technical equipment might become necessary for their removal. In such cases, special care should be taken to avoid injury to the patient and the medical crew.
Horstmann
Marcus
M
Department of Urology, Kantonsspital Winterthur, Winterthur, Switzerland. marcushorstmann@gmx.ch
Mattsson
Björn
B
Padevit
Christian
C
Gloyer
Marcel
M
Hotz
Thomas
T
John
Hubert
H
D003251:Constriction, Pathologic / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010413:Penis / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D012725:Sexual Behavior