From prostatic plexus TA A14.3.03.056M | Latin nervi cavernosi penis FMA 75477 | |
The cavernous nerves are post-ganglionic parasympathetic nerves that facilitate penile erection. They arise from cell bodies in the inferior hypogastric plexus where they receive the pre-ganglionic pelvic splanchnic nerves (S2-S4).
There are both lesser cavernous nerves and a greater cavernous nerve.
Clinical considerations
These nerves are susceptible to injury following prostatectomy.
Nerve-Sparing prostatectomy was invented for surgeons to avoid injuring the nerves and causing erectile dysfunction complications. During surgery, a doctor may apply a small electrical stimulation to the nerve and measure the erectile function with a penile plethysmograph. This test aids the surgeon in identifying the nerves, which are difficult to see.
References
Cavernous nerves of penis Wikipedia(Text) CC BY-SA