Low-intensity Shock Wave Therapy (LiSWT) is used in the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction by urologists whereby during the treatment, a small wand-like device uses targeted sound waves to stimulate penile tissue and encourage blood flow. The procedure can also grow new blood vessels, which as a result improves blood flow in the penis, which is essential for erections.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve and sustain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse. Approximately 1 in 10 adult males suffers from ED on a long-term basis.
Ideal Candidate for Low-intensity Shock Wave Therapy
LiSWT procedure works well for men with mild erectile dysfunction who:
- Are not interested in taking ED medication
- Would you like to attempt regenerative therapy to help reverse ED
- Are not responding to ED medication adequately
Diagnosis for Erectile Dysfunction
There are various causes of ED, hence specialists use several different tests to diagnose the condition and determine its cause. It is only after its exact cause has been determined that the condition can be effectively treated.
Before ordering any tests to diagnose ED, the doctor will review the patient’s medical history and perform a thorough physical examination. The doctor will also interview the patient about his personal and sexual history.
After all this has been done, the doctor may then order any one of the following tests to further diagnose the patient’s condition:
- Complete blood count (CBC): This involves a set of blood tests that can detect the presence of anemia which is caused by low red blood cell count. This can cause fatigue which in turn leads to ED.
- Liver and kidney function tests: These tests may indicate whether ED may be due to an individual’s kidneys or liver functioning improperly.
- Lipid profile: This tests the level of lipids (fats), such as cholesterol. High levels may indicate atherosclerosis, which can affect blood circulation in the penis.
- Thyroid function test: The thyroid hormone’s function among others is to regulate the production of sex hormones. Deficiency in these hormones may lead to ED.
- Blood hormone studies: This test is done to measure testosterone and/or prolactin levels in the blood to see if abnormalities in either of these sex hormones are present.
- Urinalysis: Urine analysis can provide important information, including information on protein, sugar, and testosterone levels. Thus, abnormal measurements of these can indicate diabetes or kidney disease, which are cause testosterone deficiency. All these can cause ED.
- Nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT): This measures a man’s erectile function while he is asleep. In normal circumstances, a man is expected to have 5-6 erections while asleep. Therefore, the lack of these erections may indicate ED.
- Dynamic infusion cavernosometry: This type of test is normally used for men with ED who have venous leaks. Fluid is pumped into the penis at a predetermined rate and by measuring the rate at which fluid must be pumped to attain a rigid erection, doctors can determine the severity of the venous leak.
Treating Erectile Dysfunction with Low-intensity Shock Wave Therapy
LiSWT procedure is performed in an exam room and normally, it does not require anesthesia. During the procedure, the urologist moves a wand-like device known as duolith around different areas of the patient’s penis. The device emits gentle pulses that trigger increased blood flow to the penis. The procedure may approximately take 15 minutes.
Once the treatment is complete, the patient can comfortably go home. However, if he experiences any pain, the doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief.
Possible Risk Factors of Low-intensity Shock Wave Therapy
Some of the risks associated with Low-intensity Shock Wave Therapy for treatment of Erectile Dysfunction include:
- Skin infection on the penis
- Blood in the urine
- Painful erection
- Penile curvature that worsens
- Pain at the site during the procedure
- Bleeding or bruising on and around the penis
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