Asymmetric inflation of the penile cylinders: etiology and management.

Asymmetric inflation of the penile cylinder has been encountered in the intraoperative and postoperative period. The condition appears as penile deformity of varying degrees that, when left alone, can lead to recurrent cylinder rupture. The usual cause of cylinder asymmetry is the presence of localized fibrous tissue in the corpora and/or weakened tunica albuginea, which causes the cylinder to over inflate at the area of least resistance. Treatment involves replacement of the cylinder, incision of the fibrous tissue internally or externally and strengthening of the tunica albuginea.