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Why it's done
By Mayo Clinic staff
Erectile dysfunction is a common problem, especially in older men and following prostate surgery. Treatments for erectile dysfunction include the oral medications Viagra, Cialis and Levitra, medications inserted into the urethra, medications given by injection directly into the penis and surgically placed penile implants. A penis pump may be a good choice if these treatments cause side effects, don't work or aren't safe for you.
Penis pumps can be a good erectile dysfunction treatment for several reasons:
- Less chance of problems. The risk of side effects or complications is the lowest of any erectile dysfunction treatment.
- Cost. After the initial purchase, using a penis pump costs less than any other type of erectile dysfunction treatment.
- Penis pumps are noninvasive. Penis pumps don't require surgery, injections or inserting medication into the tip of your penis.
- A penis pump can be used with other treatments. You can use a penis pump along with medications or a penile implant.
- Benefits following surgery. Using a penis pump may help you regain sexual function after surgery to remove your prostate (radical prostatectomy) or after radiation therapy. If you have a prostatectomy or surgery for Peyronie's disease, using a penis pump may maintain the length and girth of your penis.
- Lue TF, et al. Evaluation and nonsurgical management of erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. In: Wein AJ, et al.: Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. Philadelphia Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/150118548-5/0/1445/25.html?tocnode=54301368&fromURL=25.html#4-u1.0-B978-0-7216-0798-6..50024-8--cesec102_1931. Accessed July 16, 2009.
- Zippe CD. Vacuum erection devices to treat erectile dysfunction and early penile rehabilitation following radical prostatectomy. Current Urology Reports. 2008;9:506.
- AUA guideline on the management of erectile dysfunction: Diagnosis and treatment recommendation. American Urological Association. http://www.auanet.org/content/guidelines-and-quality-care/clinical-guidelines/main-reports/edmgmt/chapter1.pdf. Accessed July 16, 2009.
- Aghamir MK, et al. A vacuum device for penile elongation: Fact or fiction? BJU International. 2004;97:777.
