For several years injection of a vasodilating drug directly into the cavernous bodies of the penis has been used to induce an erection. In 19 of 25 men suffering from organic impotence, erections adequate for intromission could be achieved with papaverine sulfate within the maximum permitted dose of 100 mg. These men were taught to inject themselves. Long-term follow-up, in terms of systemic and local complications, is currently under study. Intracavernous papaverine-induced erection will undoubtedly become the first choice of treatment for impotence of neurogenic causes following major pelvic surgery.