Penis

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2–3 minutes

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The Penis

The penis has an internal root and a visible shaft and glans.  The prepuce is the loose skin on the shaft that allows for expansion during erection. It is very densely innervated with tactile corpuscles that sense light touch. The frenulum is an internal connective tissue anchors that secures the prepuce to the glans Circumcision remove the prepuce.


Erectile Tissue

In cross-sectional images of the penis, you can see distinct cylindrical structures. There are two corpora cavernosa and one corpus spongiosum. These structures fill with blood during an erection. The urethra runs through the corpus spongiosum. It serves as the final passageway for both urine and semen. It ends with the external urethral orifice at the tip of the glans.  All have their own wrapping called the tunica albuginea.  The corpora cavernosa are separated by some connective tissue.  At the center of the corpora cavernosa is an artery. The cavernous spaces in the erectile tissue are formed of trabeculae. These trabeculae are like arches of smooth muscle. They create open spaces that blood will fill during an erection.  Each of the corpora cavernosa have a deep artery, supplying the blood during erection.  On the dorsal surface of the penis are also arteries serving the skin and connective tissue of the penis.  And, I guess we should talk about which side of the penis is the dorsal side.  In the anatomical position, the penis is held erect.  Therefore, when erect, these arteries are along the side facing the body.


Erection & Ejaculation

The dorsal artery splits to serve the corpus spongiosum which the deep artery serves the corpora cavernosa.  Parasympathetic fibers release norepinephrine which cause these arteries to vasodilate. The trabecular smooth muscle of the erectile tissues relax and blood engorges them.  The bulbourethral glands start to secrete preejaculate and heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure all increase. 

Ejaculation is a sympathetically controlled event.  Initially, peristalsis in the vas deferens occurs. This action allows the prostate and seminal vesicle to add their secretions to the passing spermatozoa.  Upon expulsion, the internal urethral sphincter constricts to prevent urine from entering the urethra.



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