Maximisation of the erectile response in the investigation of impotence

Int J Impot Res. 1999 Feb;11(1):29-32; discussion 33-4. doi: 10.1038/sj.ijir.3900379.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess whether redosing with a combination of intracavernosal (IC) vasoactive agents could produce a complete erectile response, thereby providing a reliable and reproducible method of dynamic investigation of erectile dysfunction. Forty-one impotent men were redosed with a combination intracavernosal agents until a constant penile rigidity was achieved. They were then shown audiovisual sexual stimulation (VES) by means of a videotape. The erectile responses were monitored continuously by RigiScan (Dacomed).

Results: Despite a constant rigidity with intracavernous injection (ICI), 16 men (39%) still had an improved response with VES that was clinically detectable.

Conclusion: Dynamic investigation of erectile dysfunction with a combination and redosing of IC agents may still lead to an incomplete erectile response. This may potentially lead to patients being incorrectly labelled and confirms the limitations of follow-up studies using dynamic tests of erectile function.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Alprostadil / administration & dosage
  • Audiovisual Aids
  • Erectile Dysfunction / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Papaverine / administration & dosage
  • Penile Erection*
  • Penis / drug effects
  • Phentolamine / administration & dosage
  • Vasodilator Agents / administration & dosage*

Substances

  • Vasodilator Agents
  • Papaverine
  • Alprostadil
  • Phentolamine