Men's Health
About this service
A priapism shunt procedure in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic is an emergency minor surgical treatment to relieve priapism, a prolonged and painful erection that has not resolved with other treatment. Priapism is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment matters to protect long-term function, so this procedure is only considered once initial, less invasive treatment has been tried without success.
Your doctor will assess the situation urgently in our rooms and, if a shunt procedure is needed, will explain the process and carry it out under local anaesthetic. If you are experiencing a prolonged, painful erection, contact us immediately or go to the nearest emergency facility.
What to expect
- Urgent assessment as soon as you contact us, including how long the erection has lasted and what has already been tried
- Local anaesthetic numbs the penis before the shunt is made
- A small opening is created between the erectile tissue and the surrounding tissue to let trapped blood drain
- You are watched closely afterwards to confirm the erection has settled and does not return
- Follow-up is arranged to check healing and erectile function over the following weeks
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A painful erection lasting several hours without resolving
- Priapism not relieved by other treatment already tried
- An episode of prolonged, unwanted erection needing urgent care
- Recurrent priapism requiring assessment
- A situation requiring emergency urological attention
Frequently asked questions
When is a shunt procedure needed for priapism?
A shunt is considered when a prolonged erection has not settled after the trapped blood has been drained and irrigated, usually with medication injected as well. Your doctor moves to a shunt only once those first steps have failed, because the risk of permanent damage rises the longer the erection lasts.
How is a priapism stab shunt done?
Under local anaesthetic, a small opening is made between the erectile tissue and the surrounding tissue so trapped blood can drain out and normal circulation can return. It is done urgently in our rooms and you are monitored afterwards to confirm the erection has settled.
Will a priapism shunt affect my erections afterwards?
Some men notice changes in erectile function after a shunt, though the greater risk comes from leaving priapism untreated for many hours. Your doctor will explain what to expect and arrange follow-up to monitor recovery.
Ready to book your priapism shunt procedure?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.