Relaxation degree: a new concept in erectile dysfunction

To investigate the clinical application of the new parameter' Relaxation Degree.

Chart reviews of 150 patients were evaluated retrospectively of whom 96 had been diagnosed as pure cavernoocclusive dysfunction (COD) by using corpus cavernosum electromyography (CC-EMG) and cavernosometry and of whom 54 had been diagnosed as psychogenic erectile dysfunction by normal CC-EMG; cavernosometry and pulse doppler scanning. Relaxation degree was defined as the percent decrease in the amplitudes of the electrical activity of corpus cavernosum (EACC).

Mean relaxation degree measurements were found as 66.5%, 66.28% and 16% in minimal, moderate and severe COD groups respectively. This value was 80% in psychogenic erectile dysfunction group. Statistical comparisons were found significant between minimal and severe and moderate and severe COD groups. All three organic erectile dysfunction groups were also compared with psychogenic erectile dysfunction group where differences were found significant. If the normal relaxation degree was accepted as more than 80%, COD could be diagnosed with 93% specificity and 98% sensitivity without performing cavernosometry.

Relaxation degree parameter could be used in diagnosis of COD showing the percent relaxation ability of the cavernous smooth muscle as a non invasive method when compared with cavernosometry.