INTRAOPERATIVE ELECTROSTIMULATION OF THE CAVERNOUS NERVE - TECHNIQUE,RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Purpose: We studied the feasibility of inducing penile erection intrao peratively by stimulation of the cavernous nerves. Materials and Metho ds: In 16 men undergoing retropubic radical prostatectomy and 6 underg oing penile surgery for venous leakage electrostimulation was applied to both sides of the prostatic apex (prostatectomy group) or the hilum of the penis (venous surgery group). Results: Electrostimulation prod uced visible erection in 8 of the 16 prostatectomy patients and an inc rease in intracavernous pressure in 5 of the 6 venous surgery patients . Conclusions: Electrostimulation of the cavernous nerves intraoperati vely to produce penile erection is feasible. However, the technique mu st be further refined to be clinically useful, that is to localize the neurovascular bundle in men undergoing prostatectomy.