Common pitfalls in some of the experimental studies in erectile function and dysfunction: a consensus article.

INTRODUCTION

Experimental studies investigating physiology of erectile function and pathophysiology erectile dysfunction employ several in vitro and in vivo techniques. As the field of sexual medicine expanding, the proper conduct of such techniques is becoming an even more important necessity than before.

AIM

This review article aims to guide scientists, particularly young researchers and new comers in the field, toward employment of these techniques in an appropriate, timely, and competent fashion.

METHODS

The authors reviewed the existing available published articles on the following topics: intracavernosal pressure measurements, cavernous nerve injury models, nitric oxide-cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway, hypertension- and smoking-induced erectile dysfunction models, and stem cells.

RESULTS

The authors present a consensus on how to best perform these models and techniques and also highlight the pitfalls.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors hope that this article will assist and encourage young scientists in the field and that similar articles covering other important models will be also available to them soon.