There are many ways to go about treating Erectile Dysfunction (ED). The most common way to treat ED would be oral medications, such as Viagra (Sildenafil) or Cialis (Tadalafil). When these aren’t effective, penile injections are the next choice, with shockwave therapy being a treatment option that can be used in conjunction with both injections and oral medications. When these methods don’t produce the desired results, many men opt for a penile prosthetic device. Generally speaking, choosing the least invasive form of treatment in any medical field is preferred, which is why prosthetic placement is delayed until after other treatments have been attempted.
Getting a prosthetic can be very daunting, as men are commonly worried about whether or not the device will function and feel the same as a normal erection. That’s why a study conducted in 2016 looked at satisfaction rates for each kind of treatment from both the perspective of the patient and from their partner. The study compared outcomes with Tadalafil (Cialis), Bi-Mix Injections, and Penile Prosthesis.
Prior to conducting the study, each individual was required to take an IIEF-5 questionnaire (International Index for Erectile Function). Their scores after treatment were then compared. On the IIEF-5 questionnaire, patients who received a penile prosthesis had the most significant improvement in erectile function. Another questionnaire was filled out after treatment called the EDITS questionnaire (Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction) by both the patient and their partners individually. Again, the highest satisfaction rates were seen in patients who received the implanted prosthesis, by both the patient and their partners. Lastly, a Quality of Life survey was developed for this study, with the highest scores in patients who received the prosthesis. Click here to read more about the study.
It is important to note that the men with the most severe ED were in the group who received the prosthesis and were expected to see the greatest improvement. Satisfaction rates however are subjective, and across-the-board patients who received the penile prosthesis reported the highest satisfaction rates as did their partners.
If you have ED, or have received treatment without success, call or contact us to learn about our innovative treatment options.
