Penile Doppler ultrasound
Penile Doppler ultrasound is a specialist diagnostic examination assessing blood flow in the penile vessels — the deep arteries and veins. It is performed using a pharmacologically induced erection, which allows haemodynamic assessment under conditions approximating physiological erection. The examination helps establish the vascular cause of erectile dysfunction — arterial or venous. This is an invasive procedure requiring medical qualification.
Registration: Mon.–Fri. 9:00–17:00. Gdańsk, ul. Toruńska 15.
| Examination type | Doppler, pharmacological erection |
| Invasiveness | injection into the corpora cavernosa |
| Examination duration | approx. 60–90 minutes |
| Results | discussed by doctor after examination |
| Doctors | Dr. Krukowski, MD PhD; Dr. Gondek |
| Price | price list → |
assessment of arterial and venous penile flow
differentiation: arterial vs. venous dysfunction
entire examination under urologist's care
Dr. Krukowski, MD PhD; Dr. Gondek
What does penile Doppler ultrasound involve?
Penile Doppler ultrasound with pharmacological erection consists of assessing blood flow in the deep penile vessels — the cavernous arteries — using Doppler ultrasonography. Because penile haemodynamics change during erection, the examination requires prior induction of erection by means of a vasoactive drug administered by the doctor via injection into the corpora cavernosa.
Doppler flow assessment allows the doctor to differentiate whether erectile dysfunction has an arterial basis (insufficient inflow), a venous basis (abnormal outflow — so-called venous leak), or a mixed aetiology. This is one of the key examinations in andrological diagnosis of erectile dysfunction, particularly before any planned interventional treatment.
Penile Doppler ultrasound with pharmacological erection is an invasive procedure — it involves injection of medication into the corpora cavernosa. The most serious complication is priapism (prolonged erection lasting more than 4 hours), which requires immediate medical intervention. For this reason the examination is performed exclusively under the direct supervision of a doctor who has a reversal agent available. Other possible side effects include: pain or haematoma at the injection site, transient dizziness or drop in blood pressure. Before the examination the doctor discusses all risks and obtains the patient's written consent.
Indications for the examination
Penile Doppler ultrasound may be ordered by a urologist or andrologist in cases of:
- erectile dysfunction (ED) — particularly when a vascular cause is suspected,
- diagnostic workup before interventional or surgical treatment of erectile dysfunction,
- Peyronie's disease (fibrous plaque, penile curvature) — assessment of associated vascular changes,
- assessment of penile vessels after trauma or pelvic surgery,
- history of priapism — assessment of possible vascular sequelae.
Indications and qualification for the examination are assessed by the urologist during a urological consultation.
How is the examination performed?
The doctor takes a medical history, assesses indications and any contraindications, explains the procedure and risks including the risk of priapism. The patient gives written consent.
The doctor performs a baseline ultrasound of the penis — assessing the structure of the corpora cavernosa and vessels in the resting state.
The doctor administers a vasoactive drug by injection into the corpus cavernosum. Waiting for erection usually takes 10–15 minutes. The patient remains under the doctor's care throughout.
The doctor measures blood flow in the cavernous arteries using Doppler — assessing systolic flow, diastolic flow, and the resistance index. Based on the results, the cause of erectile dysfunction is differentiated.
After the examination the doctor monitors the patient. A reversal agent is administered if necessary. Results and clinical conclusions are discussed with the patient immediately after the examination.
How to prepare for the examination?
- Attend fasting or at least 2 hours after a light meal — alcohol should be avoided for at least 24 hours beforehand.
- Inform the doctor of all medications you are taking — particularly anticoagulants, nitrates, and blood pressure medications.
- Inform the doctor of any comorbidities: heart disease, diabetes, Peyronie's disease, previous penile or pelvic surgery.
- Plan your time: the examination including waiting and observation lasts approximately 60–90 minutes.
- Do not come alone unless the doctor advises otherwise — owing to possible dizziness after the injection.
Doctors performing penile Doppler ultrasound
Urologist, specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of erectile dysfunction, penile and scrotal conditions. Performs urological ultrasound examinations including penile Doppler studies. Provides consultations in andrology and urology.
Urologist performing urological ultrasound examinations at Wyspa Medycyny Przyjaznej, including specialist examinations of the urogenital system.
Penile Doppler ultrasound Gdańsk — book urological diagnostics
Erectile dysfunction diagnostics · Dr. Jakub Krukowski, MD PhD; Dr. Jakub Gondek
Gdańsk, ul. Toruńska 15 · Mon.–Fri. 9:00–17:00
Frequently asked questions — Penile Doppler ultrasound Gdańsk
What risks are associated with penile Doppler ultrasound?
The main risk is priapism — a prolonged erection lasting more than 4 hours, requiring immediate medical intervention. For this reason the examination is performed exclusively under the supervision of a doctor who has a reversal agent available. Other possible side effects include: pain or haematoma at the injection site, transient drop in blood pressure, or dizziness. The doctor discusses the risks before the examination and obtains written consent.
How long does the penile Doppler examination take?
The entire examination — from the baseline assessment at rest, through the injection and waiting for erection, to the Doppler measurements and post-examination observation — takes approximately 60–90 minutes. Please plan this time for the appointment.
What can the doctor assess from penile Doppler?
The examination allows assessment of blood flow in the cavernous arteries during erection. The doctor can differentiate whether erectile dysfunction has an arterial basis (insufficient inflow), a venous basis (abnormal outflow), or mixed aetiology. The results are significant for planning further treatment.
Is a urological consultation required before the examination?
Yes — penile Doppler ultrasound requires medical qualification. The urologist assesses indications, takes a medical history, excludes contraindications, and informs the patient about the procedure and risks. The consultation can be booked as a separate visit or combined with the examination depending on appointment availability.
Is penile Doppler examination painful?
The injection into the corpora cavernosa may be felt — the degree of discomfort is individual. A fine needle is used and the technique minimises discomfort. The doctor explains what to expect during the procedure.
What is the price of penile Doppler ultrasound in Gdańsk?
The current price is available in the urology price list or by phone at 600 006 913.
Urology — related examinations and services
Qualification for urological diagnostics and treatment.
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Details →Transrectal assessment of prostate size and structure.
Details →Prices of urological examinations and consultations.
Price list →Book an examination by phone or online.
Contact →Penile Doppler ultrasound Gdańsk — erectile dysfunction diagnostics
Dr. Jakub Krukowski, MD PhD · Dr. Jakub Gondek · Gdańsk, ul. Toruńska 15
Examination requires urological qualification · Mon.–Fri. 9:00–17:00
Penile Doppler ultrasound with pharmacological erection is an invasive diagnostic procedure performed exclusively by a doctor on the basis of individual indications and following the patient's informed consent. The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not replace medical consultation. Diagnostic findings and results are individual. Wyspa Medycyny Przyjaznej, ul. Toruńska 15 lok. AU1, Gdańsk. Tel.: 600 006 913.