The penis is composed of 3 spongy cylinders. The three cylinders consist of paired corpora cavernosa and a single corpus spongiosum. The crural roots of the corpora cavernosa attach at the under surface of the ischiopubic rami as two separate structures. Such anatomy prevents the erect penis from sinking into the perineum when faced with an axially-oriented vaginal compressive load during intercourse.

What is the Corpus Spongiosum?



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In this article, we will look at the functions and structure of the penis and how these give rise to certain clinical conditions. Note: In the anatomical position the penis is erect, so the dorsal side is that closest to the abdomen and the ventral side is closest to the testes. The root and body of the penis are spanned by three masses of erectile tissue. In the root, these tissues are known as the left and right crura , and the bulb of the penis.


Corpus spongiosum
Corpus spongiosum Plural: Corpora Spongiosa also known as corpus cavernosum urethrae in older texts is the mass of spongy tissue surrounding the male urethra within the penis. Although called corpus cavernosum in older texts, this is not correct. Behind, it is expanded to form the urethral bulb , and lies in apposition with the inferior fascia of the urogenital diaphragm , from which it receives a fibrous investment.




Corpus spongiosum Plural: Corpora Spongiosa also known as corpus cavernosum urethrae in older texts is the mass of spongy tissue surrounding the male urethra within the penis. Behind, it is expanded to form the urethral bulb , and lies in apposition with the inferior fascia of the urogenital diaphragm , from which it receives a fibrous investment. The urethra enters the bulb nearer to the superior than to the inferior surface. On the latter there is a median sulcus groove , from which a thin fibrous septum wall projects into the substance of the bulb and divides it imperfectly into two lateral lobes or hemispheres.