IMPORT CATHETER IN ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION

Purpose: We propose an alternative technique for intracavernous self-i njection of sodium nitroprusside for erectile dysfunction by inserting a Medtronic ImPort catheter with a valved tip. Materials and Methods : A silicone catheter was implanted in 3 patients with psychogenic imp otence. The reservoir, which is used for vasoactive agent injection, w as implanted laterally to the anterosuperior iliac spine and the dista l tip of the catheter was inserted into the corpora cavernosa via a su bcutaneous tunnel. The injection technique was taught to the patient a nd the initial injection was performed 1 week later. Results: All pati ents and partners were satisfied with the technique and quality of ere ctions at a mean followup of 14 months. There were no major local comp lications due to catheter implantation and no systemic complications d ue to sodium nitroprusside injection. Conclusions: An alternative tech nique for intracavernous pharmacotherapy of inserting an ImPort cathet er prevented the complications of intracavernous injections in patient s with erectile dysfunction.