The Penile Sensitivity Ratio: A Novel Application of Biothesiometry to Assess Changes in Penile Sensitivity

Abstract

Introduction Biothesiometry allows for evaluation of penile vibratory sensitivity and can be used as a non-invasive and rapid surrogate test of penile sexual sensitivity. However, no standardized measurement methodology currently exists. Aim To describe and optimize a novel, standardized biothesiometry parameter-the penile sensitivity ratio (PSR). Methods We reviewed all biothesiometry data from men presenting to our institution from July 2013-May 2017. 3 iterations of the PSR were evaluated using the threshold for vibratory detection from a combination of different input variables including the penile glans, penile shaft, index finger, and thigh. Numerator values for the PSR included the penile glans and penile shaft, whereas denominator inputs included the index finger and thigh. PSR is inversely correlated with penile sensitivity. Main outcome measure The primary outcome measure was the association between reported diminished penile sensitivity and PSR value. Secondary outcome measures were the association between PSR and age, diabetes, ejaculatory dysfunction, and Peyronie's disease (PD). Results Biothesiometry data were evaluated from 1,239 men. Mean age was 53.2 years (SD 14.0 years). Diabetes was present in 7.4% (n = 92); 52.0% (n = 644) had PD. Ejaculatory dysfunction was identified in 15.8% (n = 196), with 12.2% (n = 151) having premature ejaculation and 3.6% (n = 45) reporting delayed ejaculation. Decreased penile sensitivity was reported in 20.3% (n = 252). 3 PSR i…