Long-term follow-up of patients with erectile dysfunction commenced on self injection with intracavernosal papaverine with or without phentolamine.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: To determine the usage, complications and satisfaction with intracavernosal agents in patients with erectile dysfunction commenced on self-injection treatment at home. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 344 patients who had commenced intracavernosal treatment before December 1992 and had requested a repeat prescription were sent a questionnaire to determine the usage, complications, satisfaction and reasons for discontinuing treatment. RESULTS: Replies were received from 216 patients; of those who replied, only 126 were still using the treatment. The mean duration of treatment was 3.9 years in those continuing treatment. Whilst satisfaction ratings were high in those continuing therapy, most patients had experienced some side-effects. CONCLUSION: The long-term follow-up revealed a high attrition rate and a significant number of complications. Patients receiving auto-injection therapy should be offered regular long-term follow-up.