What is ED?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction can be present in the total inability to achieve erection, inconsistency in achieving a firm enough erection, or unintended loss of erections during sex. Dr. Danawala, urologist serving the North Texas community, specializes in erectile dysfunction treatment and the various options that exist in optimizing erectile function. His approach is multifactorial and individualized based on each patient’s unique set of circumstances, disease severity and overall goals.
How Common is it?
It is felt that approximately 20 to 30 million men in the United States have erectile dysfunction. ED is more common among older men. In fact, about 50 percent of men between 40 to 70 years old are affected in some way by erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction is also more common among men with certain medical conditions. For example, among men with diabetes, about 30 to 50 percent have erectile dysfunction.
However, erectile dysfunction does not have to be an expected part of aging. Erectile dysfunction is treatable at any age and several men have successfully been afforded the ability to optimize their sexual function with minimal risks or side effects.
How is Erectile Dysfunction Treated?
There are multiple treatment options for erectile dysfunction. They include:
- Oral drugs such as Viagra®, Cialis®, Levitra®
- Intracorporeal (penile) injections (Trimix, Bimix)
- Vacuum devices
- Intraurethral suppositories
- Penile prosthesis
The list above includes traditional methods that exist, and all are associated with their own side effects ranging from headaches, facial flushing, stuffy nose, changes in vision, penile pain/discomfort, reduced effect over time, infection, bleeding, and loss of penile length. Though these options can be very effective, most patients are discouraged by side effects. Additionally, most patients do not like the idea of being dependent on a pill or an injection.
Is there anything I can do to improve my erections naturally WITHOUT side effects AND keep the spontaneity in my love life?
The answer is yes. A clinically proven, effective, and painless office procedure called penile shockwave therapy has revolutionized the world of ED treatment.
What is Shock Wave Therapy for ED?
Penile shock wave therapy is a painless procedure that works by breaking up plaques in the blood vessels. More importantly, it promotes the growth of new blood vessels. The combination of these two benefits—rejuvenating older blood vessels plus the creation of new blood vessels—results in increased blood flow to the penis which translates into better, firmer, and longer lasting erections!
How is Shock Wave Therapy Performed?
The procedure is simple and painless. An instrument which delivers pulsatile low intensity shockwaves are applied to the penis. The procedure lasts about 15-20 minutes. Immediately following the procedure, patients can return to normal daily activities. For optimal results, patients are recommended to have 2 treatments a week for 3 weeks, totaling 6 treatments. Patients can safely have up to 12 treatments performed.
Am I a Candidate for Shock Wave Therapy?
Penile shock wave therapy can be effective in the following setting:
- If you have not seen success from treatments such as Viagra® or Cialis®,
- Diabetic men and men with Hypertension on one or more blood pressure medications
- Patients who cannot take Viagra® or Cialis® due to cardiac conditions
- Patients on blood thinners who don’t respond to pills and cannot perform self-injections (Trimix/Bimix) due to bleeding risks
- Completely healthy men who want to improve the erections they already have (e.g. increased firmness, sensitivity, duration, etc.)
It is important to discuss medical history with your doctor before proceeding with shock wave therapy for ED. Dr. Danawala will determine if you are an acceptable candidate based on his initial evaluation.
Still not sure if you’re a good candidate for penile shock wave therapy? Watch this video to see a real patient experience.
Does Shock Wave Therapy for ED Work?
There are numerous randomized clinical trials that demonstrate that shock wave therapy for ED is effective. The following demonstrates results from a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine in 2017:
In a systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2017, Dr. Ramasamy and colleagues analyzed the use of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy in seven randomized controlled trials, with a total of 602 patients. They found among men with an average age of 60.7 years and an average follow-up of 19.8 weeks, International Index of Erectile Function score significantly improved an average 6.40 points from baseline in men receiving shock wave treatment, compared to an average 1.65 points in those receiving sham therapy (J Sex Med 2017; 14:27-35)
Is Shock Wave Therapy for Stronger Erections Covered by Insurance?
At this time, shock wave therapy for erectile dysfunction is not covered by insurance. It is important to contact your insurance provider for further questions.
What is the Cost of Shock Wave Therapy for ED?
Shock wave therapy for the treatment of ED with Dr. Danawala is $300 per treatment. When compared to others around the DFW area, it is one of the lowest rates you will find. Additionally, this treatment is administered by a board-certified urologist. It is recommended to do a minimum of 6 treatments for optimal results.