(226) EXPLORING PATIENT PERSPECTIVES: IN-OFFICE PENILE DUPLEX STUDY EXPERIENCE SURVEY
Authors: Desouky E , Ljubetic BM , Bajic P , Levine LA 
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Given the superficial nature of the penis, ultrasound imaging is well-suited for its assessment. Penile Duplex Ultrasound (PDU) serves as a non-invasive diagnostic tool to evaluate penile anatomy, blood flow, and vascular function, enabling accurate assessment of various conditions like Peyronie's disease and erectile dysfunction where reliable results are essential for adequate treatment planning. The objective is to evaluate how closely we replicate the typical erection experienced by the patient at home when sexually aroused. Subsequently, we aim to contrast this with the erection observed in the clinical setting, enabling us to provide tailored treatment recommendations. It's noteworthy that some individuals may exhibit enhanced rigidity attributed to improved blood flow induced by medication. This insight is crucial, if the patient is willing to consider injection therapy, otherwise the patient would benefit more from a penile implant if the goal is to regain satisfactory penetrative sexual activity.

Objective

During the study, several factors may influence the patient's erectile response including lack of privacy, clinical environment, and logistical considerations. Our objective is to assess patient’s perspective on factors that can have an impact on his erectile response as well as potential modifications to enhance his response, thus ensuring more reliable results.

Methods

In this multicenter study, we administered questionnaires to patients following their Penile Duplex test to assess their experience and gather their perspectives. The questionnaire included inquiries about their comfort levels versus anxiety during the test, and an exploration of potential factors contributing to their anxiety. Additionally, patients were invited to score as well as to suggest changes that could be implemented to improve their overall experience.

Results

To date, 94 patients have participated in our survey. Among them, 73.4% reported feeling comfortable during the procedure, while 26.7% experienced heightened anxiety. Factors contributing to this anxiety included receiving an injection into the penis, the awareness of being tested, and concerns about their diagnosis. Regarding erectile response, 48.8% reported achieving a similar level of rigidity to what they experience at home, while 40.7% reported less rigidity. Additionally, 41% found it challenging to achieve an erection in such a clinical setting. Participants expressed preferences for enhancing their experience, suggesting measures such as providing home-like environment eg, comfortable couch, offering informative leaflets detailing the procedure, keeping partners out of the room, minimizing the presence of staff, and ensuring good internet access on their cell phones.

Conclusions

According to our survey findings, incorporating patient perspectives can enhance our overall practice during Penile Duplex examinations. This approach not only improves the patient experience but also aims to achieve an erectile response that closely mirrors real-life scenarios. This alignment with real-life situations can enhance the accuracy of our clinical assessments and, consequently, contribute to more effective management plans for our patients.

Disclosure

No.