How potent is potent before nerve sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy?
OBJECTIVE
We objectively evaluated potency before nerve sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy.


METHODS
A total of 45 consecutive potent, neurologically normal and sexually active candidates 47 to 70 years old (mean age 62) completed a detailed questionnaire (separate from their partner), and underwent penile biothesiometry, RigiScan* testing for 3 nights, and duplex Doppler scanning of the cavernous arteries before and after prostaglandin E1 injection.


RESULTS
Of the patients 8 noted moderate and the remainder normal erections on the questionnaire. RigiScan testing and penile biothesiometry correlated poorly with potency status. Duplex scanning demonstrated excellent peak velocities in 93% of the patients.


CONCLUSIONS
This well studied prospective series underscores the importance of careful objective assessment of potent surgical candidates, and underlines a strong correlation between preoperative potency status and duplex Doppler scanning.
Zimmern
P E
PE
Department of Urology, Kaiser Sunset Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Kaswick
J
J
Leach
G E
GE
D000368:Aged; D000527:Alprostadil / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010410:Penile Erection; D010413:Penis / Q000098:blood supply; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011468:Prostatectomy / Q000379:methods*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D018616:Ultrasonography, Doppler, Duplex
D000527:Alprostadil