Duration Of Erectile Dysfunction Research Articles

The Role of Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise in Erectile Dysfunction

PURPOSE: This study aimed to determine the role or applicability of pelvic floor muscle exercise for erectile dysfunction.METHODS: This narrative review was conducted by searching terms such as “erectile dysfunction”, “erection dysfunction”, “sexual dysfunction”, and “pelvic floor muscle training”, “pelvic floor muscle exercise”, “pelvic floor exercise”, “randomized controlled trials”, “randomized clinical trials” in PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science.RESULTS: Seven articles met the inclusion criteria. Six studies applied pelvic floor muscle exercise, electrical stimulation, and biofeedback treatment to patients with erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy. Only three studies showed that treatment in the intervention group had a significant effect on erectile function. Considering these results, the study subjects who applied the three treatment methods presented above were mainly patients with erectile dysfunction caused by prostate cancer surgery.CONCLUSIONS: Seven randomized controlled trials showed no significant effect of pelvic floor muscle exercise on erectile dysfunction. However, they are thought to have applicability as a method for treating erectile dysfunction. In studies of erectile dysfunction caused by radical prostatectomy, homogeneity in the age, duration of erectile dysfunction, and nerve-sparing surgery should be ensured between the intervention and control groups. First, future clinical research is required to determine whether existing methods and concurrent treatment with drugs, such as sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis) can shorten the recovery period of erectile function. Second, clinical research is needed to analyze the differences in changes in erectile function between those performing aerobic exercise and pelvic floor muscle exercise combined and those performing only pelvic floor muscle exercise.

(030) Hand Held, Self-Applicable Radio Frequency Device for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction. A Pilot Study with 6 Months Follow-Up

Abstract Introduction Collagen is an essential component of the structures involved in the erectile mechanism. Radiofrequency (RF) energy has been shown to renew and restore the spatial structural arrangement of collagen fibers and may improve erectile function of men suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED). Objective To assess the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of low-intensity radiofrequency (RF) therapy in men with ED. Methods Men with moderate & mild to moderate ED, with or without the use of PDE5-inhibitors were included. After instructions, each patient treated himself with the radiofrequency device (Vertica®), applying his selected individual RF intensity. Patients underwent, according to the protocol, 12 sessions of 30-minute treatments over 2 months. Patients were evaluated at baseline, 1, 3 and 6 months after treatment using validated questionnaires; International Index of Erectile Function (Full IIEF), IIEF-EF, and erection Hardness score (EHS), satisfaction (EDITS, BSW), and disease-specific quality and quality of life (QEQ, SQOL). In each session, patients filled safety and side-effect questions (pain, fever, burning, discomfort, urinary disorders). The Wilcoxon signed ranks test and the Marginal Homogeneity test were used for statistical processing. Results Twenty-seven out of 28 men treated, were available for 6 months follow-up, mean age 59.2±9.7. The mean ED duration was 41.2±29 months. Mean baseline IIEF-EF was 16.8±1 and improved significantly to 24.8±1.6, 24.3±1.8, and 24.2±2.08 at 1, 3 and 6 months respectively (p<0.001). The Minimal Clinical Important Difference (MCID) criteria were met by 25/28 (89%) at 1-month follow-up and 20/27(74%) at 6-month follow-up (p<0.001). A statistically and clinically significant improvement was demonstrated in the Full IIEF and EHS scores at baseline and during follow-up. No correlation was found between IIEF improvement and the age of the patients. Borderline significance (p=0.05) was found between the duration of ED and IIEF-EF improvement. No side effects were reported and participants rated the device as very comfortable and easy to operate. Conclusions The novel radiofrequency, home-use device for the treatment of ED shows promising results and the potential to improve erectile function. In this study, it was feasible and safe. Further high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to determine the long-term efficacy of the treatment. Disclosure Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Ohhmed, Israel. Clarification: No industry support in study design or execution. Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Ohhmed, Freya, Besins, Verility.

(014) Safety and Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction; A Randomized Prospective Study

Abstract Introduction Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) intracorporeal injection is one of the popular regenerative therapies that has been gaining much interest in recent years as an adjunct or alternative treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). Nevertheless, scientific evidence to support its clinical efficacy remains controversial. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of PRP injections for the treatment of ED. Methods A prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, interventional clinical study was conducted on 52 subjects at the Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University. Patients were randomized into two groups: the PRP group (n=26) and the placebo (saline) group (n=26). Each participant received three sessions (at two-week intervals) of PRP or saline injections according to his assigned group. International index of erectile function-5 (IIEF-5) scores and safety-related observations were collected at the 1st, 3rd, and 6th months of follow-up. Results The median age and ED duration were statistically comparable for both groups, 52.2 versus 52.5 years and 12.87 versus 11.8, respectively (P = 0.285). With regards to the efficacy of PRP, there were no statistically significant differences between both groups after 1, 3, and 6 months of treatment. After 1 month of treatment, the mean IIEF-5 score for the PRP group was 16.12 ± 1.25 versus 15.99 ± 1.21 for the placebo group (P = 0.683). After 3 months, the IIEF-5 score for the PRP group was 16.44 ± 1.17 compared to 16.31 ± 1.06 for the placebo group (P = 0.653). Also after 6 months, the IIEF-5 score for the PRP group was 16.35 ± 1.45 close to 16.23 ± 1.19 for the placebo group (P = 0.727). No transient hemorrhagic adverse events (hematuria, local petechial bleeding, or ecchymosis) or other side effects were reported during the injection and follow-up period for both groups. Conclusions The results of this trial suggest that although the treatment of ED with 3 injections of intracavernosal PRP separated by two-week intervals may be safe, it is not more effective than a placebo injection. Disclosure No.

(100) Cavernovenous Leakage: A New Surgical Treatment in 171 Consecutive Patients with Severe, Drug-Resistant Erectile Dysfunction

Abstract Introduction Cavernovenous leakage (CVL) is a frequent cause of erectile dysfunction (ED) in which blood entering corpora cavernosa escapes too early due to abnormal venous network, for erections to develop or maintain. When PDE5Is are ineffective to compensate for leakage, CVL is a devastating condition, affecting millions worldwide for whom no specific treatment is currently proposed. Objective Evaluate results of a new method of treatment combining open surgery and embolization simultaneously during the same procedure, in patients with CVL resistant to PDE5Is. Methods 171 consecutive patients with severe ED for more than six months, with CVL diagnosed by pharmacologically-challenge penile duplex sonography (PC-PDS) using intracavernous injection of Prostaglandin E1 and Papaverine, were operated-on. Leaks were imaged by caverno-computed tomography. Patient with other cause of ED were excluded, all had refused a penile implant, signed an informed consent, had a control PC-PDS three months after surgery, and were clinically evaluated during follow-up. A retrospective analysis was performed on prospectively collected data. Comparisons of variables before and after surgery used a paired t-test. Results Mean age was 43.8±13.6 years, range 18–76. ED had started at the beginning of sexual life (30) in 47.4%. Mean ED duration before surgery was 11.1±9.1 years (range 0.5–30). All patients had two clinical signs of organic ED: 1. no phase of erection improvement in the past six months, 2. erection alterations during masturbation (Erection Hardness Score (EHS)<3 and/or erection instability). Signs suggesting CVL were 1. variation of erection hardness according to position during masturbations or intercourses in 59.1%, 2. erections instability during masturbation or intercourse in all patients. At three-month evaluation, mean pharmacologic EHS had increased from 2.56±.66 before surgery, to 3.40±.56 (p<.0001). All CVL hemodynamic parameters at PC-PDS had decreased compared to pre-surgery: mean End Diastolic Velocity (from 16.6±9.5 to 9.3±7.7 cm/s, p<.0001), mean leakage speed on Deep Dorsal Vein (from 12.8±13.4 to .8±3.2 cm/s, p<.0001), mean speed on any superficial vein (from 11.2±10.1 to 3.9±6.3 cm/s, p<.0001). Patients unable to perform penetrations despite ICC injection of Prostaglandin E1 20 micg plus Papaverine 40 mg (EHS<3) decreased from 66.9 to 11.6% (p<.001). At the end of the 29.8±20.4-month follow-up, IIEF-5 score had increased from 9.7±5.1 to 15.5±6.0 (p<.0001), clinical EHS during sexual intercourse from 2.0±.7 to 3.3±.7 (p<.0001), penetration success rate from 22.3±31,7 to 70.1±37.2% (p<.0001), mean EHS during masturbation from 2.11±.67 to 3.04±.75 (p<.0001), EHS at morning erection from .95±1.24 to 2.1±1.37 (p<.0001), before and after surgery, respectively. 30.4% did not take any medication for erection. Success rate defined by post-operative EHS>3 and/or EHS increase >0.5 and erection stability was 80.7%. 78.9% recognized sexual support by a sexual medicine specialist is necessary for sexual recovery after surgery. Conclusions Simultaneous open surgery and embolization is a new procedure that offers unprecedented documented results in CVL resistant to PDE5Is. Clinical screening of CVL in ED patients is simple and should be evaluated in sexual medicine practice. Disclosure No.

(154) Safety and Efficacy of Platelet-rich Plasma Injection for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction; A Randomized Prospective Study

Abstract Introduction Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) intracorporeal injection is one of the popular regenerative therapies that has been gaining much interest in recent years as an adjunct or alternative treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). Nevertheless, scientific evidence to support its clinical efficacy remains controversial. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of PRP injections for the treatment of ED. Methods A prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, interventional clinical study was conducted on 52 subjects. Patients were randomized into two groups: the PRP group (n=26) and the placebo (saline) group (n=26). Each participant received three sessions (at two-week intervals) of PRP or saline injections according to his assigned group. International index of erectile function-5 (IIEF-5) scores and safety-related observations were collected during the 1st, 3rd, and 6th months of follow-up. Results The median age and ED duration were statistically comparable for both groups, 52.2 versus 52.5 years and 12.87 versus 11.8, respectively (P = 0.285). With regards to the efficacy of PRP, there were no statistically significant differences between both groups after 1, 3, and 6 months of treatment. After 1 month of treatment, the mean IIEF-5 score for the PRP group was 16.12 ± 1.25 versus 15.99 ± 1.21 for the placebo group (P = 0.683). After 3 months, the IIEF-5 score for the PRP group was 16.44 ± 1.17 compared to 16.31 ± 1.06 for the placebo group (P = 0.653). Also after 6 months, the IIEF-5 score for the PRP group was 16.35 ± 1.45 close to 16.23 ± 1.19 for the placebo group (P = 0.727). No transient hemorrhagic adverse events (hematuria, local petechial bleeding, or ecchymosis) or other side effects were reported during the injection and follow-up period for both groups. Conclusions The results of this trial suggest that although the treatment of ED with 3 injections of intracavernosal PRP separated by two-week intervals may be safe, it is not more effective than a placebo injection. Disclosure No.

A real-world pilot study assessing treatment satisfaction with avanafil in patients with erectile dysfunction.

Avanafil is a second-generation phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, and offers a rapid onset of action (15minutes). Its real-world data, including treatment satisfaction, are still lacking. The study sought to investigate the treatment outcomes of avanafil and the factors impacting treatment satisfaction in a real-world setting. Between November 2021 and February 2023, erectile dysfunction (ED) patients prescribed avanafil were consecutively enrolled in this phase 4, open-label, cross-sectional, observational study. At each follow-up visit (4-week intervals), participants completed a questionnaire for assessing the use and treatment-emergent adverse events of avanafil, ED severity, and treatment satisfaction. The outcome measures included the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM), and Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction. Among 234 patients enrolled, 112 (47.9%) patients had follow-up visits and answered the questionnaire. Treatment with avanafil significantly improved the mean SHIM total score from 10.2 ± 5.6 at baseline to 17.5 ± 6.2 (P < .001). Of the patients treated with avanafil, 71.4% (n = 80 of 112) reported a >4-point improvement in the SHIM total score, and 33.1% (n = 37 of 112) reported normal erectile function. The proportion of patients satisfied with avanafil treatment (defined as Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction index score ≥60) was 87.5%. Several physical factors (younger age, lower waist circumference, and lower level of low-density lipoprotein), and sexual function factors (shorter duration of ED, higher SHIM total score at baseline, PDE5 inhibitor treatment naive, and acquired premature ejaculation) tended to contribute to satisfaction with avanafil treatment. Treatment-emergent adverse events occurred in 41.1% of patients, and all were mild in severity. This study identifies the factors associated with treatment satisfaction of avanafil, which may ultimately lead to better treatment outcomes. This is the first study to provide real-world evidence of avanafil for ED treatment, and validated questionnaires were used to assess erectile function and treatment satisfaction. However, the limitations of this study include single-center observational study design, small sample size, and short-term follow-up. Avanafil is an effective treatment for ED, and satisfaction rate is high in an outpatient setting. The awareness of identified factors related to patient satisfaction may improve treatment outcomes.

Safety and potential effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma and extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the treatment of erectile dysfunction after nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy in patients: pilot study

Background. Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men. Radical prostatectomy (RPE), including nerve-sparing, often leads to erectile dysfunction and a significant decrease in the quality of life. The available treatments are limited in effectiveness and/or are not suitable for patients.Aim. The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in patients after nerve-sparing RPE.Materials and methods. 14 men were included in the study after unilateral or bilateral nerve-sparing RPE more than 3 months ago. The total prostate-specific antigen in all patients was less than 0.2 ng/ml 3 months or more after surgery. Age – 57.8 ± 6.2 (49–72) years, duration of erectile dysfunction – 7.6 ± 3.9 (3–16) months. Two visits per week were out for 6 weeks: in visit 1, the ESWT (Dornier Aries) was performed on penis and injections of PRP into the penis, the muscles involved in the erection were activated at the end of the session by ESWT, in visit 2, ESWT on penis. The examinations were performed on the 0 and 60 days of the study: International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP), Erection Hardness Score (EHS), Global Assessment Questionnaire (GAQ), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Quality of Life (QoL), total blood testosterone, to penile duplex Doppler ultrasonography (PDDU) with prostaglandin E1 analog. Inclusion criteria were absence of metastases to distant organs and lymph nodes; stage no more than T3b; IIEF-5 less than 21 points after RPE; PSV less than 30 cm/s and/or RI less than 0.8 according to the PDDU after RPE; the presence of erections before RPE.Results. Treatment was tolerated satisfactorily for all patients. Significant improvement of erectile function was noted according to IIEF-5 (p &lt;0.05), SEP (p = 0.002), EHS (p = 0.002). According to GAQ, 11 patients (78.5 %) noted a positive effect of treatment. PSV and RI in both cavernous arteries increased significantly (p &lt;0.05) according PDDU. All patients noted a dysuria decrease based on IPSS (p = 0.007) and QoL (p = 0.58). The concentration of total testosterone in the blood without significant dynamics (p = 0.192).Conclusion. There are positive effects in relation to a significant improvement in erectile function in all patients according to validated questionnaires and PDDU. The proposed treatment is a promising method of restoring patient data. The study continues on a larger sample of patients.

Male Sexual Dysfunction-Related Medical Comorbidities in a Tertiary Care Center, Western Region, Saudi Arabia.

Sexual functionality is considered a vital component of human life and quality of life. Issues with sexual functionality can be a source of distress, lower self-esteem, and lower quality of life. Early detection of medical comorbidities can significantly lower the effect on sexual function. In Saudi Arabia, studies investigating the association between medical comorbidities and male sexual dysfunction (MSD) are limited. Therefore, our goal was to fill this knowledge gap. This study aimed to analyze and elaborate on all cases of MSD at a tertiary hospital, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia from 2016 to 2021. This is a cross-sectional retrospective study. The medical records of 321 patients diagnosed with MSD from 2016 to 2021 were reviewed retrospectively. The age, sex, type of sexual dysfunction, comorbidities, and lipids profile were some of the factors obtained from the patient's computerized medical records. The study population included 321 men with MSD and a mean age of approximately 53 years (SD=11.5). Among the sexual dysfunction pattern, only erectile dysfunction (ED) was found in 279 (86.9%) patients. ED duration lasted one to five years in 169 (52.8%) patients. Most of the patients (196, 61.1%) had mild ED severity. Medical causes were seen in 278 (80.4%) patients. The most frequent comorbidities were diabetes mellitus (DM) in 179 (55.8%) patients, hypertension (HTN) in 155 (48.2%) patients, and dyslipidemia in 113 (35.2%) patients. Smoking was not a risk factor for ED. The risk of having a severe form of ED was associated with idiopathic causes, HTN, DM, and ischemic heart disease (IHD). The risk of having a long duration of ED was related to idiopathic causes of ED and high serum creatinine levels. In conclusion, patients diagnosed with DM, HTN, and IHD are at greater risk to experience a severe form of ED. It is crucial to keep erection function in mind for patients with DM, HTN, and IHD as this is associated with severe ED.

Low-intensity Extracorporeal Shock Waves for Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction in Patients Not Responding to Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors, Its Durability, and Factors That May Influence the Outcome: A Clinical Trial

Background: Non-invasive treatments, such as low-intensity extracorporeal shock waves treatment (Li-ESWT), can be a safe and effective alternative for patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) who are resistant to phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5Is). Objectives: This clinical trial study aimed to evaluate the effect of Li-ESWT on ED in non-responders to PDE5Is, its durability, and factors predicting its success. Methods: This study was conducted on 128 patients with ED who were resistant to PDE5Is. Before any intervention, written informed consent was obtained, demographic characteristics were collected, and the severity of the ED score was determined using the international index of erectile function (IIEF). Patients were treated with Li-ESWT, and ED severity was remeasured by the IIEF scale at the end of the intervention, three months, and six months after the intervention. The data were analyzed by chi-square, repeated measure ANOVA, Bonferroni post hoc, and binary logistic regression tests. Results: A total of 128 patients with ED who had not responded to PDE5Is, with a mean age of 58.35 ± 8.28 and an average ED of 3.41 ± 1.78 years, were included. At the end of the intervention, the IIEF score significantly increased. Moreover, this score was significantly higher three months and six months after the intervention. Three and six months later, the IIEF score decreased significantly. However, the score was significantly higher all three times than before the intervention. Being younger than 60 years, having an ED duration of fewer than three years, being non-smoking, being non-diabetic, and having no lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) were the most prominent predictors of a successful ED treatment. Conclusions: Low-intensity extracorporeal shock waves treatment is a safe and effective method for short and long-term treatment of ED patients. Identifying predicting factors can be beneficial for urologists in selecting suitable patients and avoiding the overtreatment of those who are not suitable candidates.

Evaluation of the relationship between perirenal fat thickness and severity of erectile dysfunction: A prospective study

Objective: To investigate whether perirenal fat thickness (PRFT) is associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). Materials and Methods: Male patients aged 30-70 years who applied to the urology outpatient clinic due to ED were prospectively evaluated in this study. Patients having the similar age without ED complaints were included in the control group. Age, body mass index (BMI), fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid profile, total testosterone and HB1Ac levels of the patients were recorded. Patients presenting with ED were asked to fill the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) form. According to the total IIEF scores, ED patients were divided into 4 groups as severe, modarate, mild-moderate and mild. PRFT of all patients was measured by ultrasonography. Baseline demographic, biochemical and PRFT values were compared between groups. Results: The patients were divided into 2 groups as ED (Group 1, n:61) and control (Group 2, n:61). The mean age was 50.5 ± 10.6 years (min-max 30-70), mean BMI and mean PRFT values were also found as 24.6 ± 4.1 kg/m2 (min-max 17.6-35.1) and 4.6 ± 2.2 mm (min-max 1.5-12), respectively. While no statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of mean age, FBG, high- density lipoprotein (HDL), triglyceride, HBA1c values, BMI, total testosterone, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the mean PRFT was found to be statistically higher in Group 1 (p&lt;0.001). According to the results of the correlation analysis, severity of ED, IIEF total score, duration of ED, BMI, FBG and HBA1c were significantly correlated with PRFT. Conclusion: PRFT is a simple measurement that can be used to predict the severity of ED.

(019) Longitudinal Observation on the Prevalence and Impact of Psychological Distress Among Patients Treated for Erectile Dysfunction During the COVID Pandemic

Abstract Introduction The COVID global pandemic has significantly affected the delivery of the healthcare system with valued resources diverted to cope with more urgent clinical services. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is considered a non-urgent medical condition and hence, males with ED were not prioritised and invariably faced long delays in clinical management including postponement in surgical waitlist during this pandemic. Objective To assess the prevalence and impact of psychological distress among males with ED during the COVID pandemic based on changes in the outcomes of validated questionnaires such as the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), Depression and Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21), Sexual Distress Scale (SDS) and Decisional Engagement Scale (DES-10), as well as perceived availability of medical support. Methods Following ethics approval, this prospective longitudinal study tracked males with ED at a tertiary medical centre between June 2020 and June 2022. Inclusion criteria included males aged 20 to 70 years, who have pre-existing ED (greater than 6 months), receiving medical therapies for ED, and had enrolled in the prospective database at the time of the study. Exclusion criteria were those who have undergone penile prosthesis implantation or received major abdominopelvic surgery during the study period that may preclude sexual activity. All patients completed validated questionnaires at 0, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months with additional data collected during the peak periods of local COVID social measure lockdown. Results A total of 80 patients were identified during the 24 months and 20 patients dropped out due to surgery (15 patients) and incomplete follow-up (5 patients). The mean age of males was 46.8 (21-69) years, and the duration of ED was 14.5 (6-33) months. Almost one-third of the patients showed increased DASS scores on depression (38 patients) and anxiety (42 patients) subscales and one-quarter on stress (29 patients) subscales, with worse DASS scores during the peak periods of social measures. On the SDS questionnaire, higher concerns were registered across all domains apart from the question on regrets about your sexuality. The analyses showed a worsening of the IIEF scores (p&amp;lt;0.021), anxiety and stress (DASS score with p=0.045 and p=0.038, respectively) as well as SDS score (p=0.048) during this pandemic. However, the DES-10 scores were more positive with most patients reporting a score above 7 out of 10 in terms of items on accepting current arrangement (75%) and confidence in clinician decision-making about the treatment (80%) although most patients (92%) indicated the desire to be kept updated and provided with more detailed information on their clinical care. Conclusions The COVID pandemic has caused an adverse psychosexual impact on many patients’ erectile function and mental well-being, and social measures lockdown invariably heightened patient psychosexual distress. Our study showed regular clinical contact and medical reassurance coupled with an explanation of reasons for clinical delays in the non-urgent medical condition resulted in a high level of confidence in clinicians and potentially minimised emotional adjustment in the patients. Disclosure No

Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy for erectile dysfunction: Myths and realities.

To review the evidence of clinical efficacy of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). A search on PubMed using Medical Subject Headings terms [((low intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy) OR (Li-ESWT)) AND (erectile dysfunction)] was conducted in August 2022, to obtain studies on the use of Li-ESWT for the treatment of ED. Its success rate in terms of International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) score and Erection Hardness Score (EHS) improvement was recorded and analysed. A total of 139 articles were reviewed. Overall, 52 studies were included in the final review. 17 studies were on vasculogenic ED, 5 on post pelvic surgery ED, 4 specifically on ED in diabetic patients, 24 on non-specified origin ED and 2 on mixed pathophysiological origin ED. The mean age of patients was 55.87±7.91 (standard deviation) years and the duration of ED was 4.36±2.08 years. The mean IIEF-5 score went from 12.04±2.67 at baseline to 16.12±5.72, 16.30±3.26 and 16.85±1.63 respectively at 3, 6 and 12 months. The mean EHS went from 2.00±0.46 at baseline to 2.58±0.60, 2.75±0.46 and 2.87±0.16 respectively at 3, 6 and 12 months. Li-ESWT may be a safe and efficacy option for the treatment and cure of ED. Further studies are needed to assess which patients are more suitable for this procedure and which Li-ESWT protocol can lead to the best outcomes.

Efficacy of Penile Low-Intensity Shockwave Therapy and Determinants of Treatment Response in Taiwanese Patients with Erectile Dysfunction.

Background: Erectile dysfunction (ED) remains an emotional wrench to patients and a therapeutic challenge to urologists in andrology clinics worldwide. This is, in part, related to refraction to, or transient effect of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), coupled with patients’ dissatisfaction with this treatment modality. Low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT) is an evolving treatment option, with promising curative potential. Current international guidelines are inconclusive, bear weak recommendation strength, and lack ethnogeographic consensus. Objectives: This study evaluated the safety, efficacy, and effect duration of Li-ESWT, as well as exploring disease-associated determinants of treatment success in Taiwanese males with ED. Methods: A cohort of 69 eligible cases treated with 12 sessions of Li-ESWT and followed up for at least 12 months after treatment, between January 2018 and December 2019 at our medical facility, was used. The present single-center, retrospective, non-randomized, single-arm study employed standardized erectile function evaluation indices, namely, the five-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and Erection Hardness Score (EHS). Clinicopathological analyses of selected variables and comparative analyses of time-phased changes in the EF indices relative to baseline values were performed. Evaluation of treatment success was based on minimal clinically important difference (MCID), using a binomial logistic regression model. Results: The median age and duration of ED for our Taiwanese cohort were 55 years and 12 months, respectively, and an average of 31.3% presented with co-morbidities. The mean improvement in IIEF-5, EHS, and quality of life (QoL) domain scores relative to the baseline values was statistically very significant (p < 0.001) at all indicated follow-up time-points. When stratified, Taiwanese patients with severe and moderate ED benefited more from Li-ESWT, compared with those in the mild or mild-to-moderate group. Patients’ pre-Li-ESWT PDE5i response status was not found to significantly influence Li-ESWT response. Univariate analysis showed that age > 45 years (p = 0.04), uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (p = 0.04), and uncontrolled hyperlipidemia (p = 0.01) were strongly associated with Li-ESWT efficacy; however, only age > 45 years (p = 0.04) and uncontrolled hyperlipidemia (p = 0.03) were found to be independent negative predictors of Li-ESWT success by the multivariate logistic model. Follow-up was uneventful, with no treatment-related adverse events or side effects reported. Of the treated patients, 86.1% indicated satisfaction with the treatment regimen, and over 90% indicated they would recommend the same therapy to others. Conclusions: Li-ESWT is a safe and efficacious therapeutic modality for Taiwanese patients with ED. Uncontrolled hyperlipidemia and age > 45 years are independent negative predictors of treatment success for this cohort.

Incidence and Risk Factors of Post-Operative Depression in Patients Undergoing Transurethral Resection of Prostate for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.

BackgroundBenign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a frequent-occurring disease in middle-aged and elderly men. This work is a prospective study and aims at exploring the incidence of post-operative depression and the potential risk factors of depression in a cohort of patients with BPH in China.MethodsIn this survey, 611 men who underwent transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) were strictly selected at our institution from January 2016 to August 2019. Zung Self-rating Depression Scale was used for evaluation of depressive symptoms. Sociodemographic, clinical and other data were also collected.ResultsWe found that 152/611 (24.9%) patients suffered from different degree of depression at 6 months after TURP, including mild symptoms (20.9%) and moderate/severe symptoms (3.9%). A total of 421 (68.9%) patients developed post-TURP erectile dysfunction (ED). The occurrence of depression was closely associated with marital status, education level, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, severity of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), duration of BPH, erectile function, and comorbidities (such as diabetes, dyslipidaemia and bladder stone). The risk factors related to the severity of depression included widowed or single marital status, frequent alcohol consumption, moderate or severe LUTS, longer duration (> 5 years) of BPH, ED, urinary continence, and comorbidities such as diabetes and bladder stone.ConclusionMany risk factors are related to the occurrence of depression in patients undergoing TURP. Widowed or single marital status, frequent alcohol consumption, moderate or severe LUTS, longer duration of BPH, ED, urinary incontinence and comorbidities such as diabetes and bladder stone are connected with the increase odds of moderate or severe depressive symptom.

Modified malleable prosthesis with a fixed mesh: case series for the Ghattas technique.

Penile prosthetic implantation represents a cornerstone for patients with organic erectile dysfunction (ED) that is refractory, unsatisfactory, or contra-indicated for other approved medical or mechanical options. In this study, we introduce the “Ghattas technique,” wherein we constructed a polypropylene mesh sheath that surrounds and is fixed to a 13-mm malleable prosthesis cylinder, which can increase the cylinder diameter for cases that need a larger prosthesis. All patients underwent preoperative evaluation and completed the five-item International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire (IIEF-5). Postoperative outcomes were evaluated by IIEF-5 and Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS) questionnaires at final follow-up. The mean age of the 23 included patients was 57.9 (standard deviation [s.d.]: 11.4) years and the mean duration of ED was 8.5 (s.d.: 7.9) years. Erection improvement was determined by comparing mean preoperative and postoperative IIEF-5 scores (8.3 [s.d.: 3.9] vs 24.6 [s.d.: 0.6], P < 0.001). High treatment satisfaction was determined according to a mean EDITS score of 94.9 (s.d.: 9.9). The proposed Ghattas technique was safe and effective in our patients, and provides opportunity for cases that need a diameter larger than 13 mm. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.

Influencing Factors for Erectile Dysfunction of Young Adults with No Response to PDE5i.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common male disorder. Although orally-administered phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors) are now recognized as the primary pharmacological treatment method for ED, 20%-30% of the patients treated with PDE5 inhibitors exhibit no significant effects. This study aims to investigate the influencing factors of ED in young adults with no response to PDE5 inhibitors. ED patients who would take PDE5 inhibitors were included and investigated with a questionnaire. Patients with no response to PDE5 inhibitors (tadalafil and sildenafil) served as study group, and those with response to PDE5 inhibitors as control group. Then Chi square test and logistic regression analysis were applied to find the potential influencing factors. In total, 378 ED patients were included. Ninety-three (24.6%) cases were non-responsive to PDE5 inhibitors, and the remaining 285 (75.4%) responded to PDE5 inhibitors. In multiple logistic regression analysis, we found that history of drinking (OR=3.152; 95%CI 1.672-6.975), spousal noncooperation (OR=2.994; 95%CI 1.589-5.638), number of fixed sex partners (OR=0.358; 95%CI 0.132-0.651), duration of ED (OR=3.356; 95%CI 1.352-8.333), and depression (OR=3.689; 95%CI 1.579-8.979) could be the influencing factors for ED patients' non-response to PDE5 inhibitors. In conclusion, history of drinking, spousal noncooperation, number of fixed sex partner, long duration of ED, and depression could be the influencing factors for ED patients' non-response to PDE5 inhibitors. Patients and doctors should pay attention to these factors.

High frequency of potential phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor drug interactions in males with HIV infection and erectile dysfunction.

We sought to determine the prevalence of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor (PDE-5) mediated drug-drug interactions (DDIs) in males with HIV infection receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) and identify factors associated with PDE-5-mediated DDIs. Male US Military HIV Natural History Study participants diagnosed with erectile dysfunction (ED) and having a PDE-5 inhibitor and potentially-interacting ART co-dispensed within 30 days were included. DDIs were defined according to criteria found in published guidelines and drug information resources. The primary outcome of interest was overall PDE-5 inhibitor-mediated DDI prevalence and episode duration. A secondary logistic regression analysis was performed on those with and without DDIs to identify factors associated with initial DDI episode. A total of 235 male participants with ED met inclusion criteria. The majority were White (50.6%) or African American (40.4%). Median age at medication co-dispensing (45 years), duration of HIV infection (14 years), and duration of ED (1 year) did not differ between the two groups (p>0.05 for all). PDE-5 inhibitors included sildenafil (n = 124), vardenafil (n = 99), and tadalafil (n = 14). ART regimens included RTV-boosted protease inhibitors (PIs) atazanavir (n = 83) or darunavir (n = 34), and COBI-boosted elvitegravir (n = 43). Potential DDIs occurred in 181 (77.0%) participants, of whom 122 (67.4%) had multiple DDI episodes. The median DDI duration was 8 (IQR 1-12) months. In multivariate analyses, non-statistically significant higher odds of DDIs were observed with RTV-boosted PIs or PI-based ART (OR 2.13, 95% CI 0.85-5.37) and in those with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder (OR 1.74, 95% CI 0.83-3.64). PDE-5-mediated DDIs were observed in the majority of males with HIV infection on RTV- or COBI-boosted ART in our cohort. This study highlights the importance of assessing for DDIs among individuals on ART, especially those on boosted regimens.

Assessment of erectile function among patients with chronic kidney disease : A case–control study

Objective: The aim was to assess the effect of chronic kidney disease (CKD) on erectile function.Patients and Methods: This study included 40 patients on hemodialysis (HD), 40 patients on medical treatment [predialysis (PD)], and 20 controls. They were assessed using international index of erectile function questionnaire andlaboratory investigations (blood urea, serum creatinine, and both total and free testosterone).Results: The mean age in HD patients was 42.20±5.08 years, in PD patients was 43.83±6.59 years,and in control group, it was 42.10±5.66 years, with no significant difference among the three groups (P=0.383). Overall, 10% of HD patients had severe degree of erectile dysfunction (ED) in comparison with only 2.5% of PD patients, with no patient experiencing severe ED in the control group. There was a significant difference among the three groups regarding the grade of ED (P 0.05).Conclusion: CKD has deleterious effect on erectile function which was more severe in patients on HD than those on medical treatment. Free testosterone level was significantly reduced in patients with CKD. There was a relationship between age of HD patients and severity of ED. No relationships were found between severity of ED and disease duration, serum testosterone level (total and free), blood urea, and serum creatinine in patients with CKD.

A COMPARISON OF SERUM PROLACTIN LEVELS IN PATIENTS WITH ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION WITH AND WITHOUT TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS

Introduction: Prolactin is produced in man in several other tissues like brain, mammary gland, lymphocytes, spleen and thymus. The prolactin receptors are found mainly in the ovary and the mammary glands. Prolactin effects Erectile dysfunction in patients with and without Diabetes Mellitus type 2. Objective To find out prolactin in erectile dysfunction patients with/without Diabetes Mellitus and compare the difference in prolactin levels of Erectile dysfunction patients across the two groups of diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Methodology A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 diabetics and 100 non-diabetic patients to assess the effects of diabetes on erectile dysfunction. A convenience sampling technique was used to select patients from two hospitals. Calibrator measurements were also performed for prolactin. Independent sample t-test was performed for comparison between the two groups. Results Majority of patients were 40-49 years old (44.5%). Erectile dysfunction (ED) was significantly more common in older age groups. Duration of ED was higher in diabetic patients compared to non-diabetics. Prolactin level was higher in diabetics. Most diabetic and non-diabetic patients (48%) had mild severity of ED, however diabetic patients had slightly more severe form of ED compared to non-diabetics. Conclusions Erectile dysfunction is generally common in our setting. It may be associated with age and higher levels of prolactin. Moreover, Diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction have more significant deviation of these hormones as compared to their non-diabetic counterparts.

COMPARISON OF SERUM PROLACTIN LEVELS IN PATIENTS WITH ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION WITH AND WITHOUT TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS

Introduction:&#x0D; Prolactin is produced in man in several other tissues like brain, mammary gland, lymphocytes, spleen and thymus. The prolactin receptors are found mainly in the ovary and the mammary glands. Prolactin effects Erectile dysfunction in patients with and without Diabetes Mellitus type 2.&#x0D; &#x0D; Objective&#x0D; To find out prolactin in erectile dysfunction patients with/without Diabetes Mellitus and compare the difference in prolactin levels of Erectile dysfunction patients across the two groups of diabetic and non-diabetic patients.&#x0D; &#x0D; Methodology&#x0D; A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 diabetics and 100 non-diabetic patients to assess the effects of diabetes on erectile dysfunction. A convenience sampling technique was used to select patients from two hospitals. Calibrator measurements were also performed for prolactin. Independent sample t-test was performed for comparison between the two groups.&#x0D; &#x0D; Results&#x0D; Majority of patients were 40-49 years old (44.5%). Erectile dysfunction (ED) was significantly more common in older age groups. Duration of ED was higher in diabetic patients compared to non-diabetics. Prolactin level was higher in diabetics. Most diabetic and non-diabetic patients (48%) had mild severity of ED, however diabetic patients had slightly more severe form of ED compared to non-diabetics.&#x0D; &#x0D; Conclusions&#x0D; Erectile dysfunction is generally common in our setting. It may be associated with age and higher levels of prolactin. Moreover, Diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction have more significant deviation of these hormones as compared to their non-diabetic counterparts.&#x0D;