The influence of perineal arterial compression during cycling on the penile transcutaneous oxygen pressure

Purpose: Trauma to penile nerves and vessels providing penis by perineal co mpression during long distance bicycling appears to be responsible for temp orary genitale numbness or hypaesthesia, but also for some cases of impoten ce. The aim of our study was the evaluation of penile blood supply during c ycling. Materials and methods: In 40 healthy young men (average age 26.7 years) pen ile oxygen pressure (PtcO(2)) was obtained at the glans of the penis using a transcutaneous measurement device. The results of this non-invasive metho d were recorded before and during 20 minute-cycling in a seated position an d after cycling during a 10 minute-recovery period. Results: The mean PtcO(2) at the glans in a standing position before cyclin g was 66.21-1.5 mmHg. During 20 minute-cycling a significant decrease (p<0. 001) could be observed - the average minimal PtcO(2) was 19.6 +/- 15.6 mmHg . During the following recovery period in a standing position it increased quickly above the initial values in accordance with reactive hyperaemia (71 .8 +/- 14.0 mmHg). Conclusions: Under stable haemodynamic circumstances transcutaneous PO2 cor relates with arterial PO2-level. The results of the present study support t he hypothesis that there is a deficiency in penile perfusion by perineal co mpression. In addition to neurogenic irritation this could be responsible f or penile numbness and development of erectile dysfunction in long distant cyclists.