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Diagnostic Evaluation of Erectile Dysfunction
The American Urological Association, Inc.® (AUA) endorses the position statement of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America regarding the diagnostic evaluation of erectile dysfunction as follows:
"Diagnostic studies used to identify the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction should be individualized for each patient.
A generic or standard list of diagnostic tests for all patients is not an appropriate practice.
Studies used for the diagnostic evaluation of erectile dysfunction should be limited in general to the tests which are needed to identify the treatment options available to each patient, taking into account each patient's unique clinical status and treatment preferences.
For the patient who wishes to identify the cause or causes of his erectile dysfunction as organic and/or psychogenic, vascular and other testing may be indicated and useful, but the patient must be provided information permitting an informed decision to seek testing which is not essential to the selection of treatment options.
Extensive vascular and other tests are not indicated for the diagnostic evaluation of every patient with erectile dysfunction.
Ethical medical practice requires that diagnostic, therapeutic and other decisions must be made solely for the benefit of the patient and must be made without regard for the benefit of the health care provider." (Sexual Medicine Society of North America, January 17, 1997)
Board of Directors, April 1997
Board of Directors, May 2002(Revised)
Board of Directors, May 2007 (Revised)
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