Shock Wave Therapy Improves Erectile Dysfunction in Patients
Title of study: Effectiveness of Shock Wave Therapy: Implementation of a Soft Wide Focus Applicator in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: José Pablo Saffon, Juan Manuel Martínez, Carolina Sandoval, Héctor A. Corredor
A new study published in the journal Actas Urológicas Españolas suggests that shockwave therapy may be an effective treatment option for men with vascular erectile dysfunction (ED). Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive procedure that uses high-energy sound waves to promote tissue regeneration and improve blood circulation.
The study involved a cohort of 20 men with vascular ED who underwent a protocol of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LI-ESWT) using a soft wide focused applicator once a week for five weeks. The researchers found that after five sessions, 25% of patients and after one month follow-up, even 45% of patients showed a clinically important difference in the International Index of Erectile Function score with an average increase of five points.
The Erection Hardness Score (EHS) also showed significant improvement, with the proportion of patients with an erection insufficient to penetrate decreasing from 55.5% at baseline to 28% after therapy, and this beneficial effect persisted even after one month of follow-up.
The researchers concluded that the implementation of a soft wide focus applicator in LI-ESWT may be a promising treatment option for men with vascular ED. The therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated, with few side effects. However, further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and identify the optimal treatment protocols.
This study suggests that shockwave therapy may be a promising alternative to traditional treatments for ED, such as medication or surgery. It offers a non-invasive, pain-free option that may improve sexual function and quality of life for men with vascular ED.