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Other Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence)

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Vacuum Devices

It is possible to suck blood into your penis with a vacuum device, generated by a pump attached to an air-tight chamber that fits over your penis. This treatment, which can be used daily, is optimal for men who do not want or are not suitable for drug treatment. The blood is held there by a rubber-retaining ring around the base of your penis. The success rate is between 70%-94%.

Penile Vacuum Pump for Impotence
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Semirigid Sheath

There is also a semirigid rubber sheath that can permit penetration when fitted over your penis.

Special Considerations

When used properly, these devices are safe, but they may cause mild discomfort in some men, including bruising, pain in the penis, numbness, and blocked ejaculation. These devices are best prescribed by your physician and used under his or her direction.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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All rights reserved.

References

  • American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://www.aafp.org/online/en/home.html .

  • Erectile dysfunction. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/ED/ . Accessed August 8, 2010.

  • Guay AT, Spark RF, Bansal S, et al. American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists medical guidelines for clinical practice for the evaluation and treatment of male sexual dysfunction: a couple’s problem. 2003 update: Endocr Pract . 2003;9:77-95.

  • Sivalingam S, Hashim H, Schwaibold H. An overview of the diagnosis and treatment of erectile dysfunction. Drugs . 2006;66:2339-2355.

  • Webber R. Erectile dysfunction. Clinical Evidence . 2005;13:1120-1127.