Penile arteriography.

Abstract

Vasculogenic impotence can be due to multiple different causes, many of which can be diagnosed by noninvasive studies. Once an arterial etiology for impotence is suspected, penile arteriography may be necessary to define arterial pathology and to plan potential surgical intervention. The quality of arterial imaging is highly dependent on attention to the technical aspects of the examination, which include a thorough understanding of the arterial anatomy of the pelvis. In addition, patient preparation, arterial catheterization techniques, and pharmacological adjuncts can be helpful to improve image quality. The technique of image acquisition also can affect the quality of the images obtained. This article discusses the technical issues involved in penile arteriography.