Erectile color Doppler ultrasonography

Grey-scale and color-Doppler ultrasonographies are the most widely used, non-invasive and readily available imaging modalities for diagnostic purposes in studying erectile dysfunction (Lehmann et al. 1996). In fact, after clinical examination, it is the first tool in imaging algorithms used for the evaluation of the anatomic and functional status of the penis and of the penile vessels in patients who complain of erectile problems (NIH 1993). 

Although alteration of the venous occlusive mechanism has been claimed to be present in a high percent of Peyronie s patients with erectile dysfunction (Weidner et al. 1997), the role of arterial inflow must be investigated. In fact, color Doppler ultrasonography shows associated arterial insufficiency in 30%-50% of these patients (Kadioglu et... 

Color Doppler ultrasonography allows evaluation of postoperative erectile dysfunction. While leakage pathways are commonly observed close to the plaque in patients with severe Peyronie s disease (Bertolotto et al. 2002), after lengthening operations their identification is uncommon. It is conceivable that the scarring process following the operation could produce closure of leakage pathways adjacent to the graft. 

Sarteschi LM, Montorsi F, Fabris FM et al (1998) Cavernous arterial and arteriolar circulation in patients with erectile dysfunction a power Doppler study. J Urol 159 428-432 Shabsigh R, Fishman IJ, Quesada ET et al (1989) Evaluation of vasculogenic erectile impotence using penile duplex ultrasonography. J Urol 142 1469-1474 Tam PY, Keller T, Poppiti R et al (1998) Hemodynamic effects of transurethral alprostadil measured by color duplex ultrasonography in men with erectile dysfunction. J Urol 160 1321-1324... 

In patients with corporeal plication ultrasonography shows small lumps next to the albugineal sutures extending within the corpora cavernosa (Bertolotto et al. 2005). In patients with normal erection before surgery after shortening procedures, postoperative erectile dysfunction is uncommon. When present, color Doppler interrogation allows evaluation of the penile arteries and identification of leakage pathways. 

---