Abstract
The prognosis for genito-sexual functions in the paraplegic and tetraplegic male is closely linked to the neurological characteristics of the lesion in the lumbosacral spinal cord containing the ejaculation and erection centres. In complete spastic lesions, erection is possible but only as a mechanical reflex. Ejaculation, elicited if need be by intrathecal prostigmine, is possible if the manifestations of spinal mechanisms are seen up to T10.
The quality of the spermatozoa is variable, but generally, mediocre. In complete flaccid lesions, neither erection not ejaculation is possible. In incomplete lesions, erection and ejaculation are often possible, elicited by prostigmine if required. The quality of the sperm is generally good and is found to be better when the lesion is lower.
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Piera, J. The establishment of a prognosis for genito-sexual function in the paraplegic and tetraplegic male. Spinal Cord 10, 271–278 (1973). https://doi.org/10.1038/sc.1973.50
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sc.1973.50
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