[Intracavernous injections]

Abstract

Virag's paper concerning erection induced by intracavernous injection of papaverine was published 10 years ago, in 1982. Since this time, several substances have been tested; some have been abandoned, while others have demonstrated their efficacy and relative safety. After briefly recalling the physiology of erection and the principal substances used (papaverine, phentolamine, moxisylyte, PGE1, ceritine and VIP), the indications for intracavernous injection are reviewed in the context of investigation and treatment of certain forms of impotence. Lastly, the injection technique, the results and the complications are discussed, with emphasis on the ways to prevent or treat these complications.