Musculus ischiocavernosus
Covers the root (crus) of the penis. Compresses the crus to maintain penile erection by preventing venous outflow. Present in both males and females (covers the clitoral crus in mares).
Origin: Ischiatic tuberosity and ischiatic arch
Insertion: Crus of the penis (or clitoris) and tunica albuginea
Action: Maintains erection by compressing the crus and preventing venous drainage of the corpus cavernosum
Innervation: Pudendal nerve (S3-S5)
Dysfunction of the ischiocavernosus can contribute to priapism (persistent erection) or conversely to erectile failure. Priapism is an emergency in stallions as it causes permanent penile damage.
Dysfunction of the ischiocavernosus can contribute to priapism (persistent erection) or conversely to erectile failure. Priapism is an emergency in stallions as it causes permanent penile damage. Signs include: Persistent penile protrusion without sexual stimulation (priapism); penile swelling and edema; inability to retract the penis; can follow phenothiazine tranquilizer administration; requires emergency treatment to prevent permanent damage.
See the Ischiocavernosus on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model