Doctor and sexologist develops wireless erection monitor

In addition to the name, the doctor and sexologist also came up with an appropriate abbreviation for the TRIP patch: (Transdermal Rigidity assessment via Ischemia of the Penis). The idea for the developments The idea of ​​a new erection monitor came about two years ago when Trip told her partner that the old-fashioned device was no longer functioning. Not only was that quite uncomfortable for the wearers due to all kinds of wires. He was also hopelessly outdated in terms of computer technology. “My partner was immediately like: there must be something to come up with,” said Trip.

The importance of the erection meter

Erection measurements are important for patients undergoing prostate surgery, among other things. Trip is currently investigating the functionality, operation and especially the interpretation of the results of the new wireless meter in relation to those of the previously common instrument. Ultimately, Trip says, three groups could benefit from the erection monitor study. Men suffering from prostate cancer, candidates for an erectile prosthesis and men with erectile dysfunction that cannot be explained immediately.

In patients with prostate cancer, it is important to determine whether an erection is still possible at all. After prostate surgery or radiation, the nerves concerned are normally spared as much as possible. A lot of research is being done into the so-called erection-saving radiation and treatments. Among others at the UMC Utrecht† However, if after examination with the erection meter it appears that the patient in question can no longer get an erection, the treating doctor can decide to remove or irradiate more tissue.

Research for prosthesis

It is also important for men who are eligible for an erection prosthesis to know whether the penis itself no longer has erection possibilities. “Such an operation is irreversible, because the cavernous bodies are removed. So you only want to perform this if the body itself has no more options,” says Trip.

In men who suffer from erectile dysfunction that cannot be explained directly, it is important to determine whether an erection is physically impossible, or whether there is a psychological cause. The new wireless erection meter can also be used for this.