IMPOTENCE OF THE MALE RODENT AFTER SYMPATHETIC DENERVATION OF THE GENITAL ORGANS

Abstract

Bilateral abdominal sympathectomy induced permanent impotence in 2 young rats; the same result was obtained in another after unilateral sympathectomy. Temporary impotence was observed after bilateral abdominal sympathectomy in 2 guinea pigs. Permanent impotence was recorded in another one after removal of the hypogastric nerves and inferior mesenteric ganglion. This difference is due to the regeneration of the preganglionic fibres. Remarkable enlargement of the denervated seminal vesicles was observed in the guinea pig. No atrophy whatsoever could be detected in the testes of the impotent rats. No persistent erection was observed after sympathetic de-nervation of the internal genital organs. Bacq concludes that the presence of the sympathetic nerve supply to the c? genital organs is necessary for ejaculation and consequently for reproduction.