Erectile dysfunction is one of the most prevalent conditions that affect millions of men all over the world. This condition is defined as inability in the achievement or maintenance of an erection that is sufficient for sexual intercourse. ED is an age-related disease, as indicated by the increasing incidence with advancing age. Therefore, ED has affected more than 40% of the population of men over 40 years of age and over 70% of men over 70 years of age. While there are many treatment options for ED, many of the patients are reluctant to seek treatment because of their fear of the side effects of treatment and the cost of the treatment. Recently, low-intensity shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) has become a new treatment target for ED. This paper aims to discuss the efficiency of Li-ESWT for moderate ED and provide an overview of the mechanism of action and potential benefits for this therapy.
Mechanism of Action of Li-ESWT
Li-ESWT involves the delivery of low-intensity shock waves to the penile tissue. The shock waves are generated by a device and are focused on the penile tissue using a probe. The shock waves are believed to stimulate the growth of new blood vessels and improve blood flow to the penis. This is important because ED is often caused by a lack of blood flow to the penis. The shock waves are also thought to promote the release of growth factors and stimulate the production of nitric oxide, a key chemical involved in the process of an erection.
Effectiveness of Li-ESWT for Moderate ED
Several studies have examined the effectiveness of Li-ESWT for the treatment of ED. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 studies, including a total of 833 participants, found that Li-ESWT significantly improved erectile function in men with ED. The review also reported that Li-ESWT was well-tolerated with no serious adverse effects reported. Another study involving 156 men with moderate ED found that Li-ESWT resulted in a significant improvement in erectile function, with 66.6% of men reporting an improvement in their ability to achieve and maintain an erection.
A randomized controlled trial compared the effectiveness of Li-ESWT to a placebo treatment in 60 men with moderate ED. The study found that after 12 weeks, men who received Li-ESWT had a significant improvement in erectile function compared to those who received the placebo treatment. This improvement was maintained at a follow-up of 6 months. A recent study also reported that Li-ESWT was effective in men with ED who did not respond to oral medications such as Viagra.
Benefits of Li-ESWT
One of the main benefits of Li-ESWT is that it is a non-invasive and painless treatment option. Unlike other treatments for ED, such as penile injections or surgery, Li-ESWT does not require any anesthesia or incisions, making it a more appealing option for many men. Additionally, Li-ESWT has a low risk of side effects, with some mild bruising or discomfort reported as the most common side effects. This makes it a safer alternative to other treatments that may have more severe side effects.
Moreover, Li-ESWT has the potential to provide long-lasting results. Several studies have reported that the effects of Li-ESWT can last for up to 2 years after treatment. This is beneficial for men who do not wish to rely on medication to achieve and maintain an erection.
Conclusion
Low-intensity shock wave therapy is a promising treatment modality for men with moderate ED. It is effective in enhancing erectile function and is also likely to provide durable results. Additionally, Li-ESWT is a non-invasive and well-tolerated treatment with low risks of side effects. However, further evidence is required to prove the long-term efficacy of Li-ESWT and its probable benefits for men with worse ED. In general, Li-ESWT is a safe, non-invasive, and probably effective treatment option for men with moderate ED.
