SUMMARY
Tobias S. Kohler, M.D., M.P.H., is a urologist who studies men's health conditions. His research focuses on preventive health, erectile dysfunction, inflatable penile prostheses, and lower urinary tract conditions and symptoms, especially benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Dr. Kohler is an internationally recognized expert and physician trainer in complex penile prosthesis surgery. He has published more than 500 peer-reviewed articles and scientific abstracts. He has presented nationally and internationally on topics such as erectile dysfunction, penile prostheses, low testosterone, supraphysiologic testosterone, BPH and surgical education.
In addition to his clinical and research activities, Dr. Kohler is actively involved in education. He has co-edited several textbooks and has 100 hours of training in wellness coaching at Mayo Clinic.
Focus areas
- Erectile dysfunction. Dr. Kohler's work conceptualizes erectile dysfunction as a manifestation of systemic disease by exploring its common pathophysiological mechanisms and integrative strategies for prevention and treatment. He evaluates factors that influence clinical and functional outcomes after penile prosthesis insertion, particularly patient satisfaction and the root cause of device failure.
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia. Dr. Kohler studies how to optimize treatment of obstructive lower urinary tract symptoms while preserving sexual function.
- Low testosterone. Dr. Kohler investigates the physiological roles of testosterone. His work challenges the long-standing paradigm that contraindicates testosterone replacement therapy in patients with a history of prostate cancer. He also is an expert on the outcomes of testosterone abuse.
Significance to patient care
Dr. Kohler helps patients find the best prevention and treatment options for erectile dysfunction and other conditions. He helps patients understand how other health conditions affect results after surgery and explores their expectations for care. Dr. Kohler developed a combined approach for treating BPH using transurethral resection of the prostate with steam therapy. For some patients, this method improves urine flow while helping keep sexual function.
Professional highlights
- President, Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA), 2024-present.
- Mayo Clinic:
- Director, Men's Health Clinic, General Internal Medicine, 2020-present.
- Program director, Andrology Fellowship (Rochester), 2018-present.
- Board member, North Central Section, American Urological Association, 2024-2026.
- Co-editor, Surgeons as Educators: A Guide for Academic Development and Teaching Excellence, 2018.