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Argiolas A, Argiolas FM, Argiolas G, Melis MR. Erectile Dysfunction: Treatments, Advances and New Therapeutic Strategies. Brain Sci 2023; 13:802. [PMID: 37239274 PMCID: PMC10216368 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13050802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get and maintain an adequate penile erection for satisfactory sexual intercourse. Due to its negative impacts on men's life quality and increase during aging (40% of men between 40 and 70 years), ED has always attracted researchers of different disciplines, from urology, andrology and neuropharmacology to regenerative medicine, and vascular and prosthesis implant surgery. Locally and/or centrally acting drugs are used to treat ED, e.g., phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (first in the list) given orally, and phentolamine, prostaglandin E1 and papaverine injected intracavernously. Preclinical data also show that dopamine D4 receptor agonists, oxytocin and α-MSH analogues may have a role in ED treatment. However, since pro-erectile drugs are given on demand and are not always efficacious, new strategies are being tested for long lasting cures of ED. These include regenerative therapies, e.g., stem cells, plasma-enriched platelets and extracorporeal shock wave treatments to cure damaged erectile tissues. Although fascinating, these therapies are laborious, expensive and not easily reproducible. This leaves old vacuum erection devices and penile prostheses as the only way to get an artificial erection and sexual intercourse with intractable ED, with penile prosthesis used only by accurately selected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Argiolas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (F.M.A.); (M.R.M.)
| | - Francesco Mario Argiolas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (F.M.A.); (M.R.M.)
| | - Giacomo Argiolas
- General Medicine Unit, Hospital San Michele, ARNAS“G. Brotzu”, Piazzale Ricchi 1, 09100 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Maria Rosaria Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (F.M.A.); (M.R.M.)
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Karakose A, Yitgin Y. Penile rehabilitation with low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy in patients after prostate cancer surgery. Early physiological changes and postoperative follow-up outcomes. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e14804. [PMID: 34487369 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.14804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To investigate the efficacy, safety and postoperative outcomes of using tadalafil and low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) on penile rehabilitation and preventing urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy. METHODS In total, we included 66 patients who used only tadalafil (n = 32) in group 1 and used tadalafil and treated by Li-ESWT (n = 34) in group 2. We noted International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) 5, daily incontinence pad measurements at preoperative, postoperative 3rd, 6th and 12th months respectively. We also evaluated penis blood flow and neovascularisation by penile doppler ultrasonography at postoperative 3rd and 12th months for all patients. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS version 18. A P-value < .05 was considered significant. RESULTS Preoperative demographic characteristics were similar in the two groups. There was a statistically significant improvement in IIEF-5, which started at the 6th month and continued increasingly at the 12th month in group 2 compared with group 1. Also, there was a significant decrease in incontinence rate in group 2 compared with group 1 in the sixth month. CONCLUSIONS Combined use of tadalafil and Li-ESWT is highly effective and safe for the treatment of erectile dysfunction and for the prevention of urinary incontinence after prostate cancer surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayhan Karakose
- Depatment of Urology, Istinye Universtiy Faculty of Medicine, Esenyurt/Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yasin Yitgin
- Depatment of Urology, Istinye Universtiy Faculty of Medicine, Esenyurt/Istanbul, Turkey
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Chung E. A review of regenerative therapies as penile rehabilitation in men following primary prostate cancer treatment: Evidence for erectile restoration and cavernous nerve regeneration. Asian J Urol 2021; 9:287-293. [PMID: 36035357 PMCID: PMC9399549 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajur.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Methods Results Conclusion
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Chung
- AndroUrology Centre, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- University of Queensland, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Macquarie University Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- AndroUrology Centre, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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Chung E. Regenerative technology to restore and preserve erectile function in men following prostate cancer treatment: evidence for penile rehabilitation in the context of prostate cancer survivorship. Ther Adv Urol 2021; 13:17562872211026421. [PMID: 34434257 PMCID: PMC8381411 DOI: 10.1177/17562872211026421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Erectile dysfunction (ED) following prostate cancer treatment is not uncommon and penile rehabilitation is considered the standard of care in prostate cancer survivorship (PCS), where both patient and his partner desire to maintain and/or recover pre-treatment erectile function (EF). There is a clinical interest in the role of regenerative therapy to restore EF, since existing ED treatments do not always achieve adequate results. Aim To review regenerative therapies for the treatment of ED in the context of PCS. Materials and Methods A review of the existing PubMed literature on low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (LIESWT), stem cell therapy (SCT), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), gene therapy, and nerve graft/neurorrhaphy in the treatment of ED and penile rehabilitation, was undertaken. Results IESWT promotes neovascularization and neuroprotection in men with ED. While several systematic reviews and meta-analyses showed positive benefits, there is limited published clinical data in men following radical prostatectomy. Cellular-based technology such as SCT and PRP promotes cellular proliferation and the secretion of various growth factors to repair damaged tissues, especially in preclinical studies. However, longer-term clinical outcomes and concerns regarding bioethical and regulatory frameworks need to be addressed. Data on gene therapy in post-prostatectomy ED men are lacking; further clinical studies are required to investigate the optimal use of growth factors and the safest vector delivery system. Conceptually interpositional cavernous nerve grafting and penile re-innervation technique using a somatic-to-autonomic neurorrhaphy are attractive, but issues relating to surgical technique and potential for neural 'regeneration' are questionable. Conclusion In contrast to the existing treatment regime, regenerative ED technology aspires to promote endothelial revascularization and neuro-regeneration. Nevertheless, there remain considerable issues related to these regenerative technologies and techniques, with limited data on longer-term efficacy and safety records. Further research is necessary to define the role of these alternative therapies in the treatment of ED in the context of penile rehabilitation and PCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Chung
- AndroUrology Centre, Suite 3, 530 Boundary St., Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
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Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) Alleviates Pain, Enhances Erectile Function and Improves Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10163602. [PMID: 34441902 PMCID: PMC8396816 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10163602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), affecting over 90% of patients with symptomatic prostatitis, remains a therapeutic challenge and adversely affects patients’ quality of life (QoL). This study probed for likely beneficial effects of ESWT, evaluating its extent and durability. Patients and methods: Standardized indices, namely the pain, urinary, and QoL domains and total score of NIH-CPSI, IIEF-5, EHS, IPSS, and AUA QoL_US were employed in this study of patients with CP/CPPS who had been refractory to other prior treatments (n = 215; age range: 32–82 years; median age: 57.5 ± 12.4 years; modal age: 41 years). Results: For CP symptoms, the mean pre-ESWT NIH-CPSI total score of 27.1 ± 6.8 decreased by 31.3–53.6% over 12 months after ESWT. The mean pre-ESWT NIH-CPSI pain (12.5 ± 3.3), urinary (4.98 ± 2.7), and QoL (9.62 ± 2.1) domain scores improved by 2.3-fold, 2.2-fold, and 2.0-fold, respectively, by month 12 post-ESWT. Compared with the baseline IPSS of 13.9 ± 8.41, we recorded 27.1–50.9% amelioration of urinary symptoms during the 12 months post-ESWT. For erectile function, compared to pre-ESWT values, the IIEF-5 also improved by ~1.3-fold by month 12 after ESWT. This was corroborated by EHS of 3.11 ± 0.99, 3.37 ± 0.65, 3.42 ± 0.58, 3.75 ± 0.45, and 3.32 ± 0.85 at baseline, 1, 2, 6, and 12 months post-ESWT. Compared to the mean pre-ESWT QoL score (4.29 ± 1.54), the mean QoL values were 3.26 ± 1.93, 3.45 ± 2.34, 3.25 ± 1.69, and 2.6 ± 1.56 for months 1, 2, 6, and 12 after ESWT, respectively. Conclusions: This study shows ESWT, an outpatient and easy-to-perform, minimally invasive procedure, effectively alleviates pain, improves erectile function, and ameliorates quality of life in patients with refractory CP/CPPS.
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Neurogenic Erectile Dysfunction. Where Do We Stand? MEDICINES 2021; 8:medicines8010003. [PMID: 33430218 PMCID: PMC7825654 DOI: 10.3390/medicines8010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to attain and maintain an erection sufficient to permit satisfactory sexual performance, causing tremendous effects on both patients and their partners. The pathophysiology of ED remains a labyrinth. The underlying mechanisms of ED may be vasculogenic, neurogenic, anatomical, hormonal, drug-induced and/or psychogenic. Neurogenic ED consists of a large cohort of ED, accounting for about 10% to 19% of all cases. Its diversity does not allow an in-depth clarification of all the underlying mechanisms nor a “one size fits all” therapeutical approach. In this review, we focus on neurogenic causes of ED, trying to elucidate the mechanisms that lie beneath it and how we manage these patients.
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Sexual function and rehabilitation after radiation therapy for prostate cancer: a review. Int J Impot Res 2021; 33:410-417. [PMID: 33408347 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-020-00389-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of prostate cancer is partly guided by patient preferences. Radical prostatectomy and radiation therapy are the standard radical therapies for localized disease and render comparable oncologic outcomes. Considering that survival is high regardless of the chosen treatment, factors such as treatment-related toxicities affecting the patients' quality of life play an important role in their decision. Notably, post-treatment sexual dysfunction, which includes decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculatory dysfunction has been shown to be an important and prevalent concern of prostate cancer survivors. In this literature review, we sought to characterize the sexual complications associated with radiation therapy and map the available sexual rehabilitation options for prostate cancer survivors experiencing sexual dysfunction as a result of radiation therapy. We identified medical, non-biomedical, counseling, and lifestyle modification options for prostate cancer survivors seeking sexual rehabilitation. Future research in this area should address the standardization of sexual side-effect reporting and investigate sexual outcomes and rehabilitation in more diverse groups and of transgender and nonheterosexual prostate cancer survivors.
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Drury R, Natale C, Hellstrom WJG. Reviewing the evidence for shockwave- and cell-based regenerative therapies in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Ther Adv Urol 2021; 13:17562872211002059. [PMID: 33796149 PMCID: PMC7968013 DOI: 10.1177/17562872211002059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is both a common and complex disease process. Existing ED treatments do not always achieve adequate results. There is clinical interest in employing regenerative therapies, including low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT), platelet rich plasma (PRP), and stem cell therapy (SCT), in the treatment of ED as adjunct or alternative treatments. Here, we present evidence for emerging shockwave- and cell-based regenerative therapies for the treatment of ED following a thorough review of the existing PubMed literature pertaining to Li-ESWT, PRP, and SCT in relation to the treatment of ED. Li-ESWT causes microtrauma in tissue that hypothetically upregulates angiogenesis and recruits stem cells. Several large-scale systematic reviews and meta-analyses have reported that Li-ESWT improved ED in humans. Additionally, evidence has commenced to show that Li-ESWT may be effective against two recognized and complex etiologies of ED: diabetic and neurogenic. PRP delivers an autologous sample rich in growth factors to damaged tissue. Animal model studies have demonstrated improved erectile function recovery as well as preservation of cavernous nerve axons. Studies with PRP in humans are limited. SCT utilizes the regenerative potential of stem cells for healing of damaged tissue. In the treatment of ED, SCT has been used in the setting of diabetic and post-prostatectomy ED. Results of human studies are varied, although SCT treatments did result in increased erectile rigidity with some patients recovering the ability to achieve penetration. While these regenerative therapies show potential to augment the current treatment regimen for ED, there is a paucity of evidence to support the safety and efficacy of these treatments. Further research is necessary to define the role of these alternative therapies in the treatment of ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Drury
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Caleb Natale
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
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Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy among urologist practitioners: how the opinion of urologists changed between 2016 and 2019. Int J Impot Res 2020; 34:317-319. [PMID: 33328618 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-020-00394-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Liu MC, Chang ML, Wang YC, Chen WH, Wu CC, Yeh SD. Revisiting the Regenerative Therapeutic Advances Towards Erectile Dysfunction. Cells 2020; 9:cells9051250. [PMID: 32438565 PMCID: PMC7290763 DOI: 10.3390/cells9051250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is an inability to attain or maintain adequate penile erection for successful vaginal intercourse, leading to sexual and relationship dissatisfaction. To combat ED, various surgical and non-surgical approaches have been developed in the past to restore erectile functions. These therapeutic interventions exhibit significant impact in providing relief to patients; however, due to their associated adverse effects and lack of long-term efficacy, newer modalities such as regenerative therapeutics have gained attention due to their safe and prolonged efficacy. Stem cells and platelet-derived biomaterials contained in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are thriving as some of the major therapeutic regenerative agents. In recent years, various preclinical and clinical studies have evaluated the individual, as well as combined of stem cells and PRP to restore erectile function. Being rich in growth factors, chemokines, and angiogenic factors, both stem cells and PRP play a crucial role in regenerating nerve cells, myelination of axons, homing and migration of progenitor cells, and anti-fibrosis and anti-apoptosis of damaged cavernous nerve in corporal tissues. Further, platelet-derived biomaterials have been proven to be a biological supplement for enhancing the proliferative and differentiation potential of stem cells towards neurogenic fate. Therefore, this article comprehensively analyzes the progresses of these regenerative therapies for ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Che Liu
- Department of Urology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-C.L.); (C.-C.W.)
- Clinical Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, school of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- School of Dental Technology, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Lin Chang
- Department of Urology, Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 242, Taiwan;
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 242, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Applied Science and Engineering, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 242, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Chun Wang
- TCM Biotech International Corp., New Taipei City 22175, Taiwan; (Y.-C.W.); (W.-H.C.)
| | - Wei-Hung Chen
- TCM Biotech International Corp., New Taipei City 22175, Taiwan; (Y.-C.W.); (W.-H.C.)
| | - Chien-Chih Wu
- Department of Urology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (M.-C.L.); (C.-C.W.)
- Department of Education and Humanities in Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Shauh-Der Yeh
- Department of Urology and Oncology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Correspondence:
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Baccaglini W, Pazeto CL, Corrêa Barros EA, Timóteo F, Monteiro L, Saad Rached RY, Navas A, Glina S. The Role of the Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy on Penile Rehabilitation After Radical Prostatectomy: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Sex Med 2020; 17:688-694. [PMID: 32007430 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Erectile dysfunction (ED) after radical prostatectomy (RP) still represents a major issue. Considering the benefits recently described regarding the application of low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (LiESWT) in vasculogenic ED, questions arise about its role in the scenario of penile rehabilitation. AIM To compare the early introduction of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor (PDE5i) with a combination therapy enrolling both early PDE5i use and LiESWT in patients submitted to RP. METHODS This study is a randomized clinical trial, open-label, with 2 parallel arms and an allocation ratio of 1:1. The study was registered in ReBEC (ensaiosclinicos.gov.br) Trial: RBR-85HGCG. Both arms started tadalafil at a dose of 5 mg/day right after the removal of the transurethral catheter, and the experimental group received 2,400 shocks/session-week distributed on 4 different penile regions. The full treatment consisted of 19,200 impulses across 8 weeks. OUTCOMES The primary clincal end point was ≥4-point difference favoring the experimental group considering the mean International Index of Erectile Function short form (IIEF-5) at last follow-up. Any statistical difference in the IIEF-5 score between the arms was stated as the primary statistical end point. RESULTS Between September 25, 2017, and December 3, 2018, 92 men were enrolled in the study. At last follow-up, we assessed 77 patients, 41 in the control group and 36 in the intervention group. A difference between groups was detected when accessing the final median IIEF-5 score (12.0 vs 10.0; P = .006). However, the primary clinical endpoint considering a difference ≥4-point between the arms has not been reached. When performing an exploratory analysis comparing the proportion of those individuals with an IIEF-5 score ≥17, no difference between groups was noted (17.1% vs 22.2%; P = .57). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS So far, the benefits arising from LiESWT for penile rehabilitation after RP have been uncertain. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS This is the first trial assessing the role of LiESWT on erectile function after RP. Our study protocol included only one session per week for the experimental group, raising a query if a more intensive application could achieve better results once a statistically significant difference was found between groups. We discontinue the PDE5i use at the last session, which may have interfered in the penile vascular rehabilitation, maybe compromising the results too. CONCLUSION After therapy with 19,200 impulses therapy across 8 weeks, we found an improvement of the IIEF-5 score, but it was not enough to be considered clinically significant. More studies are warranted before any recommendation on this topic. Baccaglini W, Pazeto CL, Corrêa Barros EA, et al. The Role of the Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy on Penile Rehabilitation After Radical Prostatectomy: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Sex Med 2020;17:688-694.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willy Baccaglini
- Discipline of Urology, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Santo André, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Frederico Timóteo
- Discipline of Urology, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Monteiro
- Discipline of Urology, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | | | - Arthur Navas
- Discipline of Urology, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Sidney Glina
- Discipline of Urology, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Santo André, Brazil
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Sramkova T, Motil I, Jarkovsky J, Sramkova K. Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Using Focused Linear Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwaves: Single-Blind, Sham-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial. Urol Int 2019; 104:417-424. [PMID: 31825926 DOI: 10.1159/000504788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) is a new treatment modality for erectile dysfunction (ED). Our aim was to evaluate the treatment outcome of Li-ESWT for ED in single-blind, placebo controlled, randomized clinical trial. METHODS Sixty patients were randomized into 2 age-matched groups: Group A - treatment and Group B - placebo. Treatment consisted of 4 sessions on the PiezoWave2 unit (R. Wolf and ELvation Medical). Effectiveness was assessed according to the International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF-5), Erectile Hardness Score (EHS), questions 2 and 3 of the Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP 2, SEP 3), and Global Assessment Question (GAQ) scores at baseline and 4 and 12 weeks after treatment. We evaluated patient's and partner's subjective satisfaction. RESULTS A statistically significant difference between the groups was found at 4 and 12 weeks after treatment with regard to the quality of erection as measured by the IIEF-5 (p = 0.049 and p < 0.001, respectively), the EHS after week 12 (p < 0.001), an increase in the EHS after 4 and 12 weeks (p = 0.030 and p < 0.001, respectively), after 12 weeks in GAQ (p < 0.001), SEP 2 (p = 0.05), SEP 3 (p < 0.001), and patient's satisfaction (p < 0.001) and partner's satisfaction (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The randomized single-blind study confirms that Li-ESWT significantly improves erectile function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Sramkova
- Department of Sexology, University Hospital and Department of Traumatology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia, .,Department of Urology First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague and General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia,
| | - Igor Motil
- EURED Urology, Andrology Center, Brno, Czechia
| | - Jiří Jarkovsky
- Institute of Biostatistics and Analyses, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
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