Deep artery of the penis

Deep artery of the penis is a significant blood vessel that plays a crucial role in the physiology of penile erection. It is also known as the deep dorsal artery of the penis in some anatomical texts. This artery is a branch of the internal pudendal artery, which itself is a branch of the internal iliac artery. The deep artery of the penis is essential for providing the blood supply necessary for the erectile tissue of the penis, specifically the corpora cavernosa, to become engorged, leading to an erection.

Anatomy

The deep artery of the penis originates from the internal pudendal artery after it enters the perineum through the lesser sciatic foramen. It travels through the Alcock's canal, alongside the pudendal nerve and the dorsal nerve of the penis, before reaching the dorsal aspect of the penis. Here, it dives deep into the core of the corpora cavernosa, running along its length.

As it progresses, the deep artery of the penis gives off smaller branches that supply the erectile tissue within the corpora cavernosa. These branches are crucial for the process of penile erection, as they fill with blood and cause the penis to become rigid.

Function

The primary function of the deep artery of the penis is to supply blood to the corpora cavernosa, which are the two cylindrical pieces of erectile tissue that run along the length of the penis. During sexual arousal, the artery dilates under the influence of neurotransmitters released from the nervous system, allowing more blood to flow into the corpora cavernosa. This increased blood flow causes the erectile tissue to expand and harden, leading to an erection.

The regulation of blood flow through the deep artery of the penis is a complex process involving various physiological mechanisms. These include the release of nitric oxide (NO) from endothelial cells, which stimulates the relaxation of smooth muscle cells in the arterial wall, allowing the artery to dilate and increase blood flow.

Clinical Significance

The deep artery of the penis is of significant clinical interest due to its role in erectile dysfunction (ED). Conditions that affect the blood flow through this artery, such as atherosclerosis or trauma, can lead to difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection. Treatments for ED often focus on improving blood flow through the deep artery of the penis, either through medication, such as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil), or through surgical interventions in more severe cases.

See Also

• Erection
• Erectile dysfunction
• Penis
• Internal pudendal artery
• Corpora cavernosa