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[Erectile disfunction after non nerve-sparing radical pelvic surgery]
F Mantovani1, E Patelli, F Colombo
1Istituto di Urologia, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore, Milan, Italy.
Summary
This study found that combining Sildenafil and L-Arginine effectively restored sexual function in patients post-pelvic surgery. This alternative therapy proved superior to Sildenafil alone for improving erectile function.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Pharmacology
- Sexual Medicine
Background:
- Radical pelvic surgery frequently leads to impaired sexual function.
- Conventional treatments like prostaglandin E1 injections have limitations.
- Investigating alternative therapies is crucial for improving post-surgical outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of Sildenafil combined with L-Arginine as an alternative to conventional erectile dysfunction treatments.
- To assess the synergistic effect of L-Arginine, a nitric oxide precursor, on Sildenafil's efficacy.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving 116 patients undergoing radical cystectomies or prostatectomies.
- Two randomized groups: one treated with Sildenafil alone, the other with Sildenafil and L-Arginine.
- Efficacy assessed via the Buckling test and subjective telephonic interviews.
Main Results:
- A 100 mg dose of Sildenafil showed significant results (Buckling test > 500) in both groups.
- The combination of Sildenafil and L-Arginine demonstrated superior efficacy compared to Sildenafil alone.
- Exclusion criteria included cardiopathic, diabetic, and retinal disorder patients; mean age was 65.
Conclusions:
- Non-invasive pharmacological treatment with Sildenafil and L-Arginine can restore satisfactory sexual activity.
- This combination therapy offers a promising alternative for managing erectile dysfunction post-pelvic surgery.