What is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. This condition can arise from a complex interplay of cardiovascular, neurological, hormonal, and psychological factors. Since recurring erection problems can be an early indicator of an underlying systemic disease, they must be evaluated by a specialist urologist.
Primary Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
The underlying causes of ED are generally categorized into organic and psychogenic factors. Identifying these causes during the diagnosis stage directly affects the success of the treatment:
- Vascular Causes: Vascular diseases that restrict blood flow to the penile area, such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetes.
- Neurogenic Causes: Nerve damage resulting from Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), or previous pelvic surgeries.
- Hormonal Causes: Low testosterone levels (hypogonadism) and thyroid gland dysfunctions.
- Psychogenic Causes: Chronic stress, performance anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
Modern Erectile Dysfunction Treatments in Adana
Modern urology offers step-by-step, patient-specific treatment protocols based on the patient's general health status and the severity of the condition. The current methods applied in clinical urology standards across Adana include:
1. Pharmacological Treatments (Oral Medications)
Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are first-line oral medications that relax smooth muscles in the penis to increase blood flow. These drugs must be prescribed under the supervision of a physician after evaluating the patient's cardiac health and drug interactions.
2. ESWT (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy)
Low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT) triggers new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) through micro-waves applied to the penile tissue. This non-invasive, painless method offers a long-term improvement alternative for mild to moderate vascular ED.
3. Intracavernosal Injection Therapy
This method is preferred for patients who do not respond to or cannot use oral medications. A specific drug mixture injected into the side of the penis shortly before intercourse dilates local blood vessels to induce a rapid erection.
4. Penile Prosthesis Surgery (Penile Implants)
This is the definitive surgical option for patients with severe organic erectile dysfunction who do not benefit from conservative treatments. Available as malleable (one-piece) or inflatable (three-piece) devices, penile implants are fully concealed inside the body and yield high satisfaction rates.
Diagnosis and Evaluation Process
To establish a successful treatment plan, a detailed medical history is taken. Along with laboratory analyses such as blood glucose, lipid profile, and hormone panels, Penile Doppler Ultrasonography is performed when necessary to objectively measure blood flow velocity and structural conditions of the penile arteries.