Parámetros hemodinámicos en el proceso normal de la erección

The normal process of erection has six defined haemodynamic phases: Flaccidity, latent erection (Pre-erection), tumescence, full erection, rigidity erection, and detumescence. During this process there are changes in cavernosal arterial dilation, increase in pudendal blood flow, intracavernous pressure, and the pressure at the end of diastole. These changes are reflected, in turn, in the resistance index (RI), oxygen concentration, and degree of erection, that is the clinical representation of the whole process. Pudendal blood flow should increase without limitations until the phenomenon of venous occlusion preceding rigidity occurs, which is the key system to save energy while maintaining an adequate erection with minimum expense of blood. Each of the phases mentioned also has a representation by penile Doppler ultrasound, which makes the ultrasound images a cost effective tool for the appropriate diagnosis of different vascular problems affecting normal haemodynamics.