Dorsal artery of the penis | |
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Details | |
Source | Internal pudendal artery |
Vein | Deep dorsal vein of the penis |
Supplies | Penis |
Identifiers | |
Latin | arteria dorsalis penis |
TA98 | A12.2.15.044M |
TA2 | 4354 |
FMA | 19795 |
Anatomical terminology |
The dorsal artery of the penis is a bilaterally paired terminal branch of the internal pudendal artery which passes upon the dorsum of the penis to the base of the glans penis, where it unites with its contralateral partner and supply the glans and foreskin.
The dorsal artery of the penis provides blood supply to the skin and fascia of the penis (including the foreskin), and the erective tissues of the penis (especially the glans penis).
The dorsal artery of the penis may be damaged in traumatic amputation of the penis and repairing the dorsal artery surgically prevents skin loss, but it is not essential for sexual and urinary function. Its hemodynamics and blood pressure can be assessed to test for sexual impairment.