Four-Hour Erection Can Lead to Permanent Erectile Dysfunction – Expert Warns

In a groundbreaking lecture at the University of Lagos, Professor of Surgery, Kehinde Tijani, issued a stark warning about the dangers of prolonged penile erections lasting over four hours. According to Tijani, such conditions, medically known as priapism, constitute a urological emergency that, if left untreated, could result in permanent erectile dysfunction.

Delivering his inaugural lecture titled ‘Man’s Reproductive System: Its Manufacturing Errors, Equipment Failure, and Failed Deliveries,’ Prof. Tijani stressed the importance of urgent medical intervention. He explained that any delay beyond 24 hours in seeking specialist care could lead to irreversible damage. He urged those affected to seek surgical help immediately.

Addressing wider concerns in men’s reproductive health, Tijani advised that children with abnormalities in their sex organs should be evaluated by a specialist early, before the age of gender self-awareness. He also called for training health workers to examine newborns for potential genital abnormalities.

The lecture also highlighted concerns around infertility, with Tijani recommending that men, often overlooked in discussions of infertility, undergo semen analysis as the first step in evaluation. He emphasized the need for facilities equipped with MRI-TRUS fusion prostate biopsies for the early detection of prostate cancer, which could significantly improve outcomes.

Tijani’s lecture was the third in a series from the Urology unit at the University of Lagos, with the last one delivered 27 years ago. He shared that his passion for urology stemmed from personal experiences, particularly his grandfather’s urinary issues, as well as the challenges faced by elderly patients with urethral catheters during his medical training.

Touching on the delicate subject of penile fractures, Tijani reminded attendees that certain sexual positions can increase the risk of injury, urging couples to exercise caution. He further elaborated on the risks of priapism, noting that ischemic priapism—the most dangerous form—can lead to permanent damage if not treated urgently.

Prof. Tijani also delved into the issue of male reproductive injuries, citing a study conducted in Lagos. He revealed that most injuries occurred in men aged 20 to 29, and included cases stemming from machinery accidents, self-harm, and even acts of violence.

In closing, Tijani urged the government to prioritize immunizing boys against mumps, as the virus has been linked to infertility in men. He also called for further research and development in urological care to address pressing health issues.

In response, the Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, praised Tijani for his contributions to the field. She highlighted his pioneering technique for treating hypospadias, a common congenital anomaly in male children, which has been referenced in international urology textbooks.

Prof. Ogunsola also commended Tijani’s research that debunked previous beliefs about the causes of urethral strictures, showing that trauma, rather than infection, was the leading cause. She congratulated Tijani on his achievements, stating that his work has significantly advanced the field of urology both locally and internationally.

With his inaugural lecture complete, Tijani has now officially joined the ranks of professors who have fulfilled their academic responsibilities at the University of Lagos.