Endovascular treatment for Erectile Dysfunction

1. What is this condition?

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection adequate for sexual activity. Causes include psychological, hormonal, nerve-related, or vascular problems affecting blood flow to the penis.

2. Who may benefit from vascular treatment?

– Oral medications (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil) do not work
– You do not wish to undergo penile prosthesis surgery
– Your doctor suspects a vascular problem causing ED

3. Common vascular causes

– Penile artery stenosis: Narrowed arteries reduce blood supply
– Venous leakage: Blood leaks out and cannot be maintained in the penis

4. Treatment options

1. Balloon angioplasty ± stent – A thin catheter is used to open narrowed arteries.
2. Venous embolization – Injecting material to seal leaking veins
These are minimally invasive procedures through a small puncture of needle, not open surgery.

5. Risks and limitations

– Bruising, swelling, or discomfort at the puncture site
– Results vary among individuals
– Imaging studies (angiogram, CT, MRI) may be needed for planning

6. After the procedure

– Usually an overnight stay
– Home the next day
– Avoid strenuous activity for 1 week
– Sexual function may gradually improve if the cause is vascular

7. Talk to your doctor

This treatment requires evaluation and planning with your primary doctor and a vascular surgeon.