Vascular impotence: focal or diffuse penile disease.

Using computerized image analysis the percentage of smooth muscle fibers was measured in several biopsies of the penis from 10 cadavers and 5 patients with vascular impotence. No significant difference was observed between the proximal and distal areas, and/or between the peripheral and central areas in 1 corpus cavernosum, and between the 2 corpora cavernosa for each patient or cadaver. The percentage of smooth muscle fibers was less in impotent patients in comparison with the cadavers, in which the erectile status was not known, and this reduction occurred throughout both cavernous bodies. Vascular impotence is a diffuse penile disease. Therefore, a cavernous body biopsy can be used to study the penile structure in the assessment of vascular impotence.