Erectile dysfunction refers to the chronic inability to get or maintain an erection which is sufficient for sexual intercourse.

What Are The Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction?

When sexual desire is present, and the man is with his partner, the man cannot sustain an erection and proceed with sexual intercourse.

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?

Physical Causes:

• Neurological problems
• Stroke
• Paraplegia
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Diabetes
• Certain Medications e.g. for blood pressure
• Lifestyle Factors
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Vascular Disease
• Peripheral Vascular Disease
• Arteriosclerosis
• Venous Leakage
• Injury/Trauma
• Surgery
• Prostatectomy
• Cystectomy

Psychological Factors

• Depression
• Guilt
• Performance Anxiety

Who Is Likely To Get Erectile Dysfunction?

The incidence of erectile dysfunction increases with increasing age. Diabetics and smokers represent a sizable portion of ED sufferers.

What Does Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction Involve?

Psychiatric Treatment:

• Psychotherapy

Drug Therapy:

Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors

• Viagra
• Cialis
• Levitra

Natural Products

• Yohimbine
• Prostaglandins – these can either be injected directly into the corpus cavernosum of the penis (the injectable product is sold under the name Caverject), or they are available as urethral suppositories (trade name: Muse)

Vacuum Pumps

Surgical Solutions:

• Semi-Rigid Prosthesis – this is a metal rod coated with silicone that is implanted into the penis. It can be bent down and concealed. The patient manipulates the prosthesis to the desired upward position in order to have intercourse.
• Inflatable Prosthesis – this is a plastic tube attached to a water-containing reservoir and a pump. The patient simply activates the pump and the prosthesis fills with liquid and becomes erect.

Vascular Surgery

Revascularization – this is an operation that uses a piece of leg vein to bypass the blocked area.

Venous Ligation – in cases of venous leakage, the affected veins are ligated (tied off), thus preventing the leak.

What Are The Advantages Of Treatment?

With appropriate treatment, sexual function can often be restored.

How Long Does It Take?

This depends on the procedure chosen. Vascular reconstruction surgery can be an involved procedure.

How Many Treatments Are Required?

With surgery, one treatment should suffice.

When Will I See Results?

You should see results soon after the procedure.

What Are My Alternatives to Treat Erectile Dysfunction?

There are other approaches, such as herbal remedies, but they are unproven.

Will I Have Pain?

If you experience pain during an erection, or your erection lasts for more than 4 hours, see your physician. Surgery to repair the vasculature may result in some pain, but this is manageable with medication.

When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?

You should take a few days off of work after surgery, particularly if vascular repair or bypass was performed.

Who Will Perform My Treatment?

One of our board-certified urologists will prescribe the appropriate treatment.

How Much Does It Cost?

Please call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 for more information.

Will My Insurance Cover Erectile Dysfunction Treatment?

Insurance should cover this condition and any approved treatments.