Penile gangrene induced by colovesical fistula: a case report

Fournier’s gangrene (FG) is a progressive necrotizing soft tissue infection of the perineum, perianal region, and external genitalia caused by one or more pathogenic microorganisms. This article presents a case of an 83-year-old male patient with penile FG caused by a colovesical fistula. The patient was admitted with penile swelling and necrosis and had a prior history of a colovesical fistula that had not been adequately treated. Upon diagnosis, comprehensive treatment was administered, including antimicrobial therapy, and anti-shock therapies. Surgical interventions included debridement, colovesical fistula repair, and partial penectomy. The article provides a detailed account of the treatment process, postoperative management, and follow-up, aiming to serve as a reference for similar clinical cases. FG resulting from a colovesical fistula is extremely rare. Effective management of this condition requires prompt and aggressive antimicrobial therapy, early debridement, and timely repair of the colovesical fistula.