Is Penile Doppler Ultrasonography Overdiagnosed?

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine whether penile Doppler ultrasonography (USG) examinations, combined with the administration of intracavernosal vasoactive agents, were correctly performed as a second-line diagnostic method with the proper indications in a select patient group. A total of 200 patients who underwent penile Doppler ultrasounds in our clinic were included in the study. Patients' demographic data were collected, information about their medical-sexual history was taken, physical examinations were performed, and laboratory analyses were conducted. Patients were informed in detail about the process, and their consent was given prior to the study. Procedure outcomes and complications were also recorded. The relationship of vasculogenic pathologies was analysed, and the rate of abnormal results and complications was compared with the existing literature. Following the investigations, abnormal results were found in 24.5% of patients, while this rate was 6.8% in patients under the age of 40. Arterial insufficiency was found in 31 patients and venous insufficiency in 18 patients. Five patients had both pathologic conditions. No statistically significant correlation was found between arterial insufficiency and age, while venous insufficiency was significantly correlated with age (p=0.006). Penile Doppler ultrasounds should only be ordered for a carefully selected patient group. Ordering ultrasounds without a proper indication can result in unnecessary labour and financial loss, as well as an increase in invasive procedures.