Background　Intraoperative penile erection is a relatively rare complication during urologic surgery， but it can render the procedure difficult. Although the mechanism of intraoperative penile erection is unclear， anesthetic methods and anesthetics have been shown to affect its occurrence and development.　Objective　The purpose of this paper is to improve clinicians' understanding for the effects of anesthesia on intraoperative penile erection.　Content　This review summarizes the mechanism of intraoperative penile erection， possible effects of anesthetic methods and anesthetic drugs on intraoperative penile erection.　Trend　Applying appropriate anesthetic methods and anesthetics may effectively prevent the occurrence and development of the intraoperative penile erection.