Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile Dysfunction, often referred to as ED, is the inability to achieve or maintain a sufficient erection for a satisfying sexual activity. The prevalence of ED tends to increase with age, and it can lead to a loss of self-confidence and conflicts within intimate relationships. If these symptoms persist for more than three months, seeking treatment for ED is advisable.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
In the past, psychological factors were often considered the primary causes of ED. However, recent research has broadened the understanding of ED to include chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndromes, medication side effects, and environmental factors. Additionally, there is a growing tendency to approach ED not merely as a sexual dysfunction but also as related to men’s overall health, vitality, and aging.
Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction
- Inability to achieve an erection spontaneously or with sexual stimulation.
- Erections that are short-lived or diminish before intercourse.
- Insufficiently firm erections or erections that do not sustain sexual activity.
- Erections that do not reach the required rigidity for penetration.
- Reduced frequency of morning erections.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Psychological Factors
Psychological factors, such as decreased sexual self-confidence, stress, anxiety, or depression, can lead to psychogenic ED, it is essential to recognize that heightened stress or anxiety can trigger excessive sympathetic nervous system activity, causing blood vessels to contract excessively and impeding the relaxation of the smooth muscles of the penile corpus cavernosum. Emotional factors may also contribute to a vicious cycle of recurrent ED.
Medical Conditions
Medical conditions, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, heart diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, musculoskeletal issues, and reproductive system disorders, can impact ED. Research indicates that patients with chronic medical conditions are approximately 2-4 times more likely to experience ED compared to healthy individuals. Lifestyle factors contributing to these chronic conditions, such as obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption, can also elevate the risk of ED and should be managed cautiously.
Surgery or Trauma
Surgery or trauma in the pelvic area, such as prostatectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia or pelvic surgeries for bladder, colon, or rectal cancer, can lead to ED. The pelvic cavity houses the autonomous nerves and vessels that play a crucial role in erections. Any damage to this region during surgery may result in erectile dysfunction.
Environmental Factors
Medical conditions, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, heart diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, musculoskeletal issues, and reproductive system disorders, can impact ED. Research indicates that patients with chronic medical conditions are approximately 2-4 times more likely to experience ED compared to healthy individuals. Lifestyle factors contributing to these chronic conditions, such as obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption, can also elevate the risk of ED and should be managed cautiously.
Surgical Procedure
Malleable Penile Prosthesis
The Malleable penile prosthesis is a type of implant in the form of a rod that is inserted in place of the corpus cavernosum. Malleable prosthesis is manually bent during the procedure. The surgical technique is relatively straightforward, cost-effective, and provides a permanent enlargement effect.
Inflatable Penile Prosthesis
Inflatable Penile Prosthesis mimic the natural movement of blood and the expansion of the corpus cavernosum. This replication of physiological principles makes it nearly indistinguishable to others, maintaining a discreet profile. The ease of use and natural feel result in a high level of satisfaction.
Indications
- Individuals who do not achieve an erection spontaneously or with sexual stimulation.
- Those who experience brief erections or have their erections subside before penetration.
- Individuals who do not achieve a sufficient erection or experience erections that do not last.
- Those who, even when achieving an erection, do not reach the required rigidity for penetration.
- Individuals whose frequency of morning erections has decreased.
