Current state of endovascular treatment for vasculogenic erectile dysfunction

Abstract

Normal erectile function requires adequate penile arterial inflow, normal penile architecture and an intact venous capacitance system. Vascular disease is the dominant etiology of erectile dysfunction (ED) and current medical therapy increases penile blood flow. However, in a large proportion of patients, medical therapy is inadequate or contraindicated requiring the use of mechanical constrictive devices or implantation of a penile prosthesis. Rapid advances in endovascular intervention have allowed safe and effective treatment of small arteries in other vascular beds. A minimally invasive approach targeting penile arterial inflow disease may prove to be safe and effective. In this paper, we discuss the normal arterial blood supply to the penis, describe angiographic findings in patients with ED, and critically review the published data on endovascular and microsurgical approaches at reestablishing penile blood flow. Lastly, we offer a potential algorithm and procedural tips for endovascular intervention for ED.