The suspensory ligament of the penis: an anatomic and radiologic description

Abstract

The suspensory system of the penis acquires clinical importance in reparative surgery, traumatology and through its role in erection. The aim of this study was to identify the different anatomic structures constituting the suspensory ligament by dissection and by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Ten unembalmed male subjects were used for dissection of the region of the base of the penis. Ten volunteer patients underwent MRI of the penis before and after the injection of prostaglandin (PGE1). The suspensory apparatus consisted of separate ligamentous structures: the fundiform ligament, which is lateral, superficial and not adherent to the tunica albuginea of the corpora cavernosa; the suspensory ligament properly so-called, further back, stretching between the pubis and the tunica albuginea of the corpora cavernosa and consisting of two lateral, circumferential, and one median bundles, which circumscribed the dorsal vein of the penis. These structures were identifiable in MRI and their supporting role was evidenced during tests of erection. The suspensory ligament seemed to maintain the base of the penis in front of the pubis and to behave as a major point of support for the mobile portion of the penis during erection.