Erectile Dysfunction
restore your potency
While it may be a difficult topic for men to discuss, erectile dysfunction (ED) is very common. ED can be described as a weak erection or a problem keeping an erection that is sufficient for normal sexual intercourse. ED affects up to 10% of men overall with the likelihood increasing with age and other medical problems. It was once thought that ED was a psychological issue, but science has revealed that up to 90% of cases have a biological cause. There are many ED treatment options that can help you achieve a stronger erection.
Risk Factors for ED
Diabetes
High Blood Pressure
Cardiovascular Disease (atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease)
Neurological Conditions (spinal cord problems, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, stroke)
Acute or Chronic Pelvic or Perineal Trauma (accidents, pressure from bicycle riding)
Certain Types of Surgery of the Bowel, Bladder, Urethra, Prostate, Spine, and Pelvic Lymph Nodes
Penile Conditions such as Peyronie's Disease (penile curvature with scarring)
Medication Side Effects
Psychological Issues (chronic or acute stress, anxiety, relationship problems)
diagnosis
A thorough evaluation involves a clinical history, examination, and laboratory tests to determine what risk factors are present and if the likely cause is a problem with penile blood flow (arteries and/or veins), penile nerves, reproductive hormones such as testosterone, a combination of these, or even a psychogenic cause. Often times, a penile duplex ultrasound may reveal critical information about the vascular health of the penis. Dr. Carrasquillo has extensive experience in performing diagnostic penile ultrasounds in an office setting.
ED treatment options
Sexual Health Counseling
Medical Therapy (oral medication, penile injection therapy, intraurethral suppository)
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Vacuum Erection Devices
Surgical Treatment with Penile Implant
Penile Revascularization Surgery
Referral to Providers for Diabetes, Cardiovascular Health, Psychological Health
*Many patients may inquire about the utility of various forms of penile shock wave therapy or acoustic/radial wave therapy for the treatment of their ED. It is important to understand that these technologies are not currently FDA-approved and there is no standardization of treatment protocol or criteria by which to determine if a patient is an ideal candidate for these treatments. Data from clinical trials thus far indicate responses may vary and best results are seen in men with mild to moderate ED due to vascular disease. Presently, the recommendation of the American Urological Association is that these treatments only be offered in the context of a clinical trial.