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

Purpose: We studied the feasibility of inducing penile erection intraoperatively by stimulation of the cavernous nerves. Materials and Methods: In 16 men undergoing retropubic radical prostatectomy and 6 undergoing 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 produced visible erection in 8 of the 16 prostatectomy patients and an increase in intracavernous pressure in 5 of the 6 venous surgery patients. Conclusions: Electrostimulation of the cavernous nerves intraoperatively to produce penile erection is feasible. However, the technique must be further refined to be clinically useful, that is to localize the neurovascular bundle in men undergoing prostatectomy.