by Tom F. Lue, MD

A better understanding of male sexual dysfunction has been made possible by innovative laboratory and clinical research in the mechanism, neurophysiology, and pharmacology of penile erection. Erectile function can now be evaluated in the office setting by intracavernous injection of vasoactive agents or the response to oral phosphodiesterase inhibitor at home. Improved diagnostic tests can differentiate among types of impotence. More oral and transurethral drugs are being developed, and the latest generation of penile prostheses is more sophisticated and durable than earlier ones. Continuing research may offer a more physiologic and disease-specific solution to various types of erectile dysfunction (ED).