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Neuromodulatory therapy with applications for the radical pelvic surgery patient

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Abstract

Erectile dysfunction as a complication of several commonly performed major pelvic surgeries is well recognized yet ineffectively averted at the present time. It is likely that the disorder relates commonly to a neuropathic process, even among men receiving maximally preserving cavernous nervesparing adjunctive procedures. Great interest exists at this time in developing effective therapies directed toward the neuropathic changes associated with pelvic surgeries, with the intent of restoring erectile function as fully and early as possible. Neuromodulation encompasses neuroprotective and neurotrophic interventions that may offer therapeutic approaches to preserve the functional integrity of the penile nerve supply with pelvic surgery. Although the therapeutic area is in its relative infancy, exciting findings thus far, mostly at preclinical levels, have provided a meaningful foundation for major clinical advances in the near future.

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  1. Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, 600 North Wolfe Street, 407 Marburg Building, 21287-2411, Baltimore, MD, USA

    Arthur L. Burnett MD

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  1. Arthur L. Burnett MD
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Burnett, A.L. Neuromodulatory therapy with applications for the radical pelvic surgery patient. Current Sexual Health Reports 2, 69–73 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-005-0007-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-005-0007-x

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