Long-term follow-up of patients with erectile dysfunction commenced on self injection with intracavernosal papaverine with or without phentolamine.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the usage, complications and satisfaction with intracavernosal agents in patients with erectile dysfunction commenced on self-injection treatment at home.


METHODS
A total of 344 patients who had commenced intracavernosal treatment before December 1992 and had requested a repeat prescription were sent a questionnaire to determine the usage, complications, satisfaction and reasons for discontinuing treatment.


RESULTS
Replies were received from 216 patients; of those who replied, only 126 were still using the treatment. The mean duration of treatment was 3.9 years in those continuing treatment. Whilst satisfaction ratings were high in those continuing therapy, most patients had experienced some side-effects.


CONCLUSIONS
The long-term follow-up revealed a high attrition rate and a significant number of complications. Patients receiving auto-injection therapy should be offered regular long-term follow-up.
Flynn
R J
RJ
Department of Surgery, Hammersmith Hospital, Royal Postgraduate Medical School, London, UK.
Williams
G
G
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D004338:Drug Combinations; D007172:Erectile Dysfunction / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007267:Injections; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010208:Papaverine / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010646:Phentolamine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D012648:Self Care
D004338:Drug Combinations; D010208:Papaverine; D010646:Phentolamine