Modern approaches to the treatment of erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is one of the most common problems men see a urologist for. The inability of the male body to achieve and maintain such a state of erection, which is necessary for a full-fledged sexual intercourse, is a problem that affects not only the physical health of the patient, but also his psycho-emotional state. The reason for the development of such a pathology can be many factors that affect the inflow and outflow of blood to the penis. Only after a qualitative diagnosis and determination of the main cause of the disease, it is possible to decide on the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Effective treatments for erectile dysfunction

The main goal of treating erectile dysfunction is to achieve the quality of erection that is necessary to restore a normal sexual life for a man. The attending urologist should not only be a professional in his field, but also be able to competently convey to the patient detailed information about the causes of his disease and methods of treatment. It is important to remember that a stable cure for erectile dysfunction is possible with psychogenic, post-traumatic arteriogenic and hormonal pathology. In other cases, the doctor must choose the best option for the patient to resume erection.

Erectile dysfunction treatment:

• First line treatment for erectile dysfunction;
• Second line treatment for erectile dysfunction;
• Third line treatment for erectile dysfunction;

First line treatment for erectile dysfunction

The first line of treatment for erectile dysfunction includes several basic methods that often begin the process of treating erectile dysfunction:

• Drugs: Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors are by far the most effective. These drugs, by blocking phosphodiesterase-5, which is involved in the breakdown of cyclic guanosine monophosphate, contribute to the emergence and maintenance of an erection during sexual activity;
• vacuum constrictor method: using a vacuum device, negative pressure is created in the cavernous bodies of the penis, blood flow ensures an erection, and a compression ring placed on the base of the penis prevents its outflow. The method is quite uncomfortable, so some patients refuse to use it;
• Psychosexual Therapy: is an essential component of the treatment of erectile dysfunction. It is desirable that the sexual partner of the man be involved in the process of psychotherapy.

Second line treatment for erectile dysfunction

The second line of treatment for erectile dysfunction involves the use of injectable vasoactive agents that are administered intracavernously. Several medications are used, such as papaverine, phentolamine, and alprostadil. This method of treatment of erectile dysfunction is very effective: about 85% of patients are satisfied with the achieved result. At the same time, it has some disadvantages, such as the need for dose selection and constant autoinjection. It is important to warn the patient that maintaining an erection achieved by intracavernous administration of drugs for more than 4 hours requires immediate medical attention.

Third line treatment for erectile dysfunction

Arthroplasty is the third line of treatment for erectile dysfunction. Surgical treatment of the disease should be resorted to when medical treatment has not achieved the desired effect, or in cases where the patient insists on a radical solution to his problem. For penile prosthetics, semi-rigid endoprostheses or special devices that mimic an erection are widely used today. This method of treatment of erectile dysfunction is the most effective and guarantees a long-lasting therapeutic effect. It is possible to resume sexual life in 1.5-2 months after surgery.

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