EFFECT OF SILDENAFIL ON ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION IN SPINAL CORD INJURED PATIENTS

GHANA MEDICAL JOURNAL, 2009 · DOI: · Published: September 1, 2009

Simple Explanation

Erectile dysfunction is a common concern for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI), impacting their quality of life alongside motor and bladder issues. This study aimed to assess how Sildenafil (Viagra®) affects erectile dysfunction in SCI patients. The study involved a prospective inquiry conducted between January and March 2007, where 16 SCI patients under Sildenafil treatment completed a questionnaire about their erectile function.

Study Duration

3 months

Participants

16 SCI patients

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
70% of the patients reported satisfaction with their erection after Sildenafil treatment.
2
A significant number of patients (10 out of 16) were also using alprostadil alongside Sildenafil.
3
Trauma was the primary cause of spinal cord injury in 87.5% of the cases, with road accidents accounting for 44% of these.

Research Summary

The study investigated the efficacy of sildenafil in treating erectile dysfunction in spinal cord injured (SCI) patients. The results showed that 70% of the patients were satisfied with their erection after treatment with sildenafil. The study concludes that Sildenafil can be a simple and effective treatment for erectile dysfunction in SCI patients, improving their quality of life.

Practical Implications

Treatment Option

Sildenafil can be considered as a treatment option for erectile dysfunction in SCI patients.

Improved Quality of Life

Effective management of erectile dysfunction can contribute to improved social and familial rehabilitation of SCI patients.

Further Research

Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these findings and explore the long-term effects of Sildenafil in SCI patients.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size limits the generalizability of the findings.
2
The study results are limited to the hospital setting and may not represent all SCI patients.
3
Concomitant use of other vasoactive drugs like alprostadil may have influenced the outcomes.

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