When a man has trouble getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex, it’s called erectile dysfunction (ED). While many men find relief through lifestyle changes or medicines, some may need surgery. Before we dive into surgical treatments, let’s quickly review what ED is and why it happens. ED can occur when there are problems with,
- Blood flow to the penis
- Hormones, especially testosterone
- Psychological factors like stress or anxiety
Penile implants – Gold standard
Penile implants have been around for a while, but they keep getting better. A surgically implanted device is placed inside the penis to allow a man to have an erection when he wants one. Penile implants come in two main types
- Inflatable implants – These have fluid-filled cylinders that a man can pump up when he wants an erection.
- Semi-rigid implants – These keep the penis firm but bendable.
Vascular surgery – Fixing blood flow issues
Problems with blood flow to the penis cause some cases of ED. Vascular surgery aims to fix these issues. While these surgeries are not new, there have been advances in techniques and technology.
Types of vascular surgery
- Arterial reconstruction – This surgery fixes blocked arteries that supply blood to the penis. It’s most helpful for younger men who have ED due to an injury.
- Venous ligation – This procedure ties off veins that are letting blood leak out of the penis too quickly. It’s not as common because the results often don’t last long.
- Micro vascular surgery – This uses very small tools to repair tiny blood vessels. It’s still experimental but shows promise.
These surgeries are complex and not right for everyone. They work best for specific types of ED caused by clear vascular problems.
Shockwave therapy – A Less invasive option
While not strictly a surgery, shockwave therapy is a newer treatment that involves a minor procedure. It uses sound waves to improve blood flow to the penis.
- A doctor uses a wand – like device to send mild shock waves through the penis.
- These waves are thought to create tiny tears in the blood vessels.
- As these tears heal, new blood vessels form.
- This improves blood flow and aids in erections.
Shockwave therapy is still being studied, but early results are promising. It’s painless and doesn’t require anaesthesia. Some men need several treatments for the best results.
Stem cell therapy – An emerging option
Stem cell therapy for ED is a cutting-edge treatment that’s still in the research phase. It involves injecting stem cells into the penis. These cells can turn into different types of cells, potentially helping to ,
- Repair damaged tissue
- Improve blood flow
- Restore nerve function
While early studies show promise, more research is needed to prove how well it works and how safe it is long-term. Doctors at an ED Clinic Willowbrook, can provide updates on the latest research in stem cell therapy for ED.
Conclusion
Surgical options for treating erectile dysfunction continue to improve. From advanced penile implants to promising new therapies like shockwave treatment, there are more choices than ever for men who haven’t found success with other treatments. The best choice depends on your situation. With the right treatment, many men can return to satisfying sexual activity, improving their quality of life.
