1. Take the Impotence (ED) Quiz
2. Impotence (ED) Slideshow Pictures
3. Sex-Drive Killers Slideshow Pictures

An ultrasound examination of your penis and testicles may be performed. The principle of ultrasound is similar to the sonar used on submarines. Sound waves are reflected back when they contact relatively dense structures, such as fibrous tissue or blood vessel walls. These reflected sound waves are then converted into pictures of the internal structures being studied.

In diagnosing the cause of erectile dysfunction, an ultrasound may be done on the lower abdomen, the pelvis, and the testicles, or it may be restricted to just the penis.

• A duplex ultrasound is a diagnostic technique that uses painless, high frequency sound waves to measure blood flow in structures such as the penis.
  
  
• The procedure itself is painless. It is usually performed before and after injection of a smooth muscle relaxing medication into the penis, which should significantly increase the diameter of the penile arteries.
  
  
• A duplex ultrasound is most useful in evaluating possible penile arterial disorders. Further studies of the venous drainage system as well as arterial imaging are usually recommended if vascular reconstructive surgery is anticipated.

Must Read Articles Related to Diagnosing Erectile Dysfunction

Diabetes There are two types of diabetes, type 1 (insulin dependent), and type 2 (non-insulin dependent). type 1 diabetes is caused by heredity, environmental factors, o...learn more >>

Impotence/Erectile Dysfunction Erectile dysfunction (ED) or male impotence is defined as the inability of a man to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for mutually satisfactory interc...learn more >>

Testicular Self-Exam A testicular self-examination (TSE) is useful in the detection of cancer of the testicles. Testicular cancer is the most common solid tumor found in males age 2...learn more >>

See the Entire Diagnosing Erectile Dysfunction Topic Guide »