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Introduction:
An increase in the incidence of the erectile dysfunction of
the penis was observed in those cyclists that cover long
distances. All the theories converge on the identification
of the perineal region as the critical point.
Objectives:
Identification of a bicycle saddle model suitable for
cyclists covering long distances, capable of limiting
compression of the structures of the pelvic fl oor, and thus
protecting the blood perfusion of the penis and preventing
possible consequences in erection.
Materials and methods:
comparison between the new geometrical conception saddle (SMP)
and one of the models most frequently used by professional
cyclists. Assessment of the degree of compression exerted by
the two saddles, on the vascular structures of the perineum,
by measuring the partial pressure of the transcutaneous
oxygen of the penis in 29 healthy, cyclist volunteers.
Readings of the transcutaneous O2 pressure carried out after
3 and ten minutes of static seating. Subsequently the values
of the PtCO2 were determined for 15 minutes while pedaling
with the subject at 60° and in stable haemodynamic
conditions.
Results:
Data analyzed statistically (test t Student, examination of
the confidence interval) demonstrate of the net superiority
of the SMP saddle in preventing vascular compression of the
perineal structures with statistically important results.
The true innovation brought about by the SMP saddle is its
capacity of interfering scarcely on the blood perfusion of
the penis, maintaining limited dimensions, especially in
width, parameter considered to date as an essential factor
in the protection of the compression on the perineal
structures. It is the geometry of this saddle that, by
redistributing the body weight onto the buttocks, the
ischial tuberosities, the ischium freeing the perineal
plane, prevents the squashing of the neurovascular
structures that run medially to the ischial tuberosities.
Furthermore, the depression in the rear part prevents the
coccyx from touching the saddle, thus preventing
repercussions caused by the unevenness of the ground that
may affect the spine.
In our study, the SMP saddle has
shown to be by far the most efficient in protecting the
blood perfusion
of the penis
compared to one of the saddles most frequently used by
professional cyclists.
Conclusions:
validation of the efficacy of the SMP saddle in limiting the
compression on the pelvic floor even though it has
dimensions, especially in width, compatible with the needs
of the cyclists that cover long distances. |
