USE OF A VACUUM TUMESCENCE DEVICE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF IMPOTENCE IN MEN WITH A HISTORY OF PENILE IMPLANT OR SEVERE PELVIC DISEASE

Purpose: To evaluate the use of a vacuum tumescence device in the treatment of impotence in couples wishing to restore coital function, whose male partners had unsatisfactory results from penile implants or in whom the man was impotent following treatment for prostate or colon carcinoma. Subjects: Convenience sample of seventeen couples seeking treatment of male factor sexual dysfunction. Methods: After completion of a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation of the male partner, couples who expressed a wish to restore coital function were instructed in the use of the vacuum tumescence device. Partners each filled out and initialled a daily diary of sexual activity and returned to clinic for followup at 3 and 6 months. Results: Sixteen patients were able to obtain firm to hard erections lasting an average of 14.9 minutes and had satisfactory coitus with vaginal ejaculation an average of 3.9 times per month. There were no significant complications. Conclusion: The vacuum tumescence device can be effective in the treatment of impotence after penile prosthesis explantation, in enhancement of inadequate erections with a prosthesis in place, and after surgical or radiation therapy for prostate or colon carcinoma.