Fracture of the penis is rare. Ninety-three cases are reported in the English literature up to December, 1981. Review of the literature after March, 1971, reveals 35 cases, including 3 cases of the authors. The complication rate of conservative treatment before and after 1971 was 10 per cent and 53 per cent, respectively, including deformity of the penis, pulsatile diverticulum, decrease in turgidity, and failure of conservative treatment. Early surgical treatment is strongly recommended because of the excellent results, shorter hospitalization, less morbidity, and early return to full sexual activity. The incidence of associated urethral injury before and after 1971 is 33 per cent and 14 per cent, respectively.