[Value of the vacuum test in the clinic of erectile dysfunction]

Among the few therapeutic alternatives currently available in erectile dysfunction (ED), vacuum is a procedure from which a considerable number of patients may benefit. To know the response and usage availability in each patient, the routine performance of the vacuum test is proposed in order to compare it with other therapeutic methodologies. This study was conducted in 272 patients with ED of various etiologies, with favourable results in 93.3%. 94% presented no complications, which were otherwise minimal (pain, haematoma) in the rest, 94% were in favour to using vacuum as therapy. This study demonstrates that vacuum is an effective methodology free from complications which allows application in most ED patients, its inclusion as a routine study of signs and symptoms of ED appearing to be very useful. This approach makes patient's knowledge of the system easier also facilitating the choice of the most appropriate therapeutic alternative.