[Pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction--diagnostic and therapeutic consequences].

During the past decade innovative research results in a better understanding of the physiology of erection and the pathophysiology of impotence. The smooth muscle of the cavernous bodies of the penis plays a major role in regulating the hemodynamics of erection. Pharmacologically induced artificial erection brought a new era in the diagnosis and treatment of impotence. Combining these injection techniques with Duplex-ultrasound a more functional and objective evaluation of the penile vasculature is possible. Based on this "one step" diagnostic work-up an improved and widened spectrum of therapeutic modalities can be offered to the patient.