Venous Leak Embolization: Innovative Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction Shows Promise

A recent study out of Switzerland has shed light on a promising new treatment for men suffering from severe erectile dysfunction (ED) that doesn't respond to medication. The procedure, known as venous embolization, targets a condition called venous leak and has shown encouraging results in terms of both safety and efficacy.

What is Venous Leak?

Venous leak occurs when blood flows out of the penis too quickly, making it difficult to maintain an erection. This condition is often resistant to common ED medications like Viagra or Cialis.

The Study

Researchers conducted a study on 50 men with an average age of 61.8 years, all of whom had severe ED due to venous leak. The procedure involves blocking the leaking problematic veins through a needle puncture into one of the veins.

Key Findings

• Safety: The procedure was successful in 98% of patients with no major adverse events reported.
• Efficacy: 68% of patients showed significant improvement in erectile function after 6 weeks
• Patient Satisfaction: 82% of patients reported feeling better after the intervention, and 78% said they would undergo the procedure again

Improvement in Erectile Function

The study used the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire to measure outcomes:

• The ability to achieve penetration improved from 1.7 to 3.2 points
• The ability to maintain an erection improved from 1.3 to 2.8 points
• The overall IIEF score increased from 31.1 to 50.0 points

These improvements were statistically significant and clinically meaningful for the patients involved.

Conclusion

Although preliminary, this study offers promise to men suffering from venous leak whose alternative may be surgical implant. This study suggests that venous embolization could be a safe and effective option for men with severe ED who don't respond to medication. 

citation:

Diehm N, Pelz S, Kalka C, Keo HH, Mohan V, Schumacher MC, Do DD, Hoppe H. Venous Leak Embolization in Patients with Venogenic Erectile Dysfunction via Deep Dorsal Penile Vein Access: Safety and Early Efficacy. Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol. 2023 May;46(5):610-616. doi: 10.1007/s00270-023-03412-2. Epub 2023 Mar 22. PMID: 36949182; PMCID: PMC10156837.

If you would like to learn more about Venous Leak Embolization, you could contact Dr. Golowa at his at his New York City based practice at (212) 991-9991