

The stiffness can also induce a considerable pain even
for small lesions that produce protective erectile
dysfunction.
Pelvic congestion
The pelvic vein network drains blood from the
rectum-sigma, testicles, prostate, bladder, and reduces
the tension of the upper abdomen (liver and spleen in
7
particular). Dysfunctional and inflammatory processes of
these organs, especially the recto-sigmoid colon and
prostate, cause the venous-lymphatic congestion of the
area thus determing circulatory and drainage
mechanisms squilibrio so that stimuli and protective
mechanisms of deficient sealing vein leading to erectile
dysfunction or its opposite acute (persistent erection
with thrombosis of the cavernous bodies, priapism)
which then rievolve in venous insufficiency are activated.
aimed at evaluating the secondary sexual characteristics
and seeking possible presence of fibrous plaques
(Peyronie's disease), concurrent signs of cardiovascular,
hormonal and neurological diseases. Careful clinical
assessment provides us with information about
possible causes, which have to be investigated with
specific diagnostic tests.
A correct diagnostic approach includes an accurate
clinical assessment (medical, sexual and psychosocial),
a careful physical examination, specific laboratory and
instrumental tests.
The history explores the presence of risk factors, the
type of symptoms and its evolution over time, as well
as the type of relationship with the partner.
Physical examination is both general and andrology,
Diagnosis
presence of fibrous or calcified plaques, fibrosis, etc.
The Doppler examination, on the other hand, allows to
assess the blood flow in the penis (arterial flow and
venous-occlusive) during flaccidity and
pharmacologically induced erection by intracavernous
injection of a vasodilator (prostaglandin E1).
Laboratory Tests
Blood tests essentially involve the assessment of the
hormones involved in the phase of libido and erection,
especially of Testosterone and Prolactin. If necessary,
other factors, such as thyroid hormones, the PSA,
cholesterol and triglycerides, blood sugar, etc. can be
considered. All tests mentioned serve to check the
possible causes of extragenital erectile dysfunction .
Tools
Penile dynamic color-doppler US allows a
morpho-functional penis study. The ultrasound
evaluation of the structure is performed, as well as the