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Vacuum constriction devices: second-line conservative treatment for impotence
1Department of Urology, Southmead Hospital, Bristol.
British Journal of Urology
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Vacuum constriction devices offer a non-operative alternative for impotence when pharmacotherapy fails. While many achieve an erection-like state, few report satisfactory sexual intercourse, suggesting a need for patient trials before purchase.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Andrology
- Sexual Medicine
Background:
- Intracavernosal pharmacotherapy, while common for erectile dysfunction (ED), has limitations in universal success.
- Vacuum constriction devices (VCDs) are recognized as a non-operative ED treatment option.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of VCDs in men with ED who previously failed intracavernosal papaverine treatment.
- To determine the practical utility and patient satisfaction with VCDs after pharmacotherapy failure.
Main Methods:
- A study cohort of 45 men with impotence, unresponsive to intracavernosal papaverine, was assessed.
- Participants used VCDs to achieve an erection-like state and attempted sexual intercourse.
Main Results:
- 38 out of 45 men (84%) achieved an erection-like state with VCDs.
- Only 12 men (27%) reported satisfactory sexual intercourse.
- Just 7 men (16%) found VCDs beneficial enough for purchase.
- Treatment success was independent of the underlying cause of impotence.
Conclusions:
- VCDs can achieve an erection-like state in a majority of men with ED refractory to pharmacotherapy.
- Patient-reported satisfaction and successful intercourse rates are significantly lower than erection achievement.
- A trial period for VCDs is recommended for each patient to assess suitability before purchase.