Penile Doppler

What is Penile Doppler?

A Penile Doppler ultrasound is a critical diagnostic tool used to assess blood flow in the penis, aiding in the evaluation of erectile dysfunction and other vascular conditions. This procedure can be performed in three different ways: without medication, with a papaverine injection, or with the administration of a sildenafil tablet, depending on the clinical scenario.

At add-on Scans & Labs, we offer three specialized types of Penile Doppler ultrasounds to assess your vascular health, each tailored to provide specific insights based on your needs. 

1. Penile Doppler Without Papaverine Injection

This version of the Penile Doppler ultrasound is performed while the penis is in a flaccid state, without the use of any medication. It provides a baseline assessment of the penile blood vessels, evaluating blood flow under normal, non-stimulated conditions.

When is it Used?

• • Baseline Vascular Assessment: Ideal for initial evaluation of blood flow and vascular structure in the penis.
  • Screening: Often the first step in assessing penile vascular health before more targeted tests.

2. Penile Doppler With Papaverine Injection

In this procedure, a vasodilator called papaverine is injected directly into the penile tissue. The injection induces an erection by dilating the blood vessels, allowing for a detailed assessment of blood flow during an erect state.

When is it Used?

• • Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis: Helps identify specific vascular causes of erectile dysfunction by analyzing arterial inflow and venous outflow during an erection.
  • Advanced Evaluation: Useful for detailed diagnostic purposes when initial tests indicate a potential vascular issue.

3. Penile Doppler With Sildenafil Tablet

In this method, a sildenafil tablet (commonly known as Viagra) is taken orally before the ultrasound. Sildenafil increases blood flow to the penis by inhibiting the enzyme that regulates blood vessel dilation. This approach simulates a natural erection more closely than an injection.

When is it Used?

• • Functional Assessment: Provides insight into how blood flow responds to oral medication, which is commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction.
  • Non-Invasive Option: Preferred by patients who are hesitant about injections, while still offering valuable diagnostic information.