Erection disorders: second line treatment

Erection disorders can be treated in three different ways.

• First–line treatment
• Second line treatment
• Third line treatment

This section discusses second line treatment.

Injections-in-the-corpora cavernosa.

The corpora cavernosa of the penis are injected with, for example, Alprostadil: (Caverject).

Potential risks

Priapism (a painful, long-lasting erection) may occur. Please watch for an erection that last for longer than four hours.

Injections in the corpora cavernosa with a product combination

The corpora cavernosa of the penis are injected with a product combination such as Papverine, Phentolamine, etcetera.

Potential risks

This product combination may also cause priapism. Please watch for an erection that last for longer than four hours.

The penis is placed at a downwards slant in the pump cylinder. The pump is then activated, exerting a gentle downward pressure on the penis in the cylinder. The gentle pressure fills the corpora cavernosa of the penis with blood, creating an artificial erection. A erectile dysfunction ring is then placed around the base of the penis.

The pump may be used daily, but the ring may not be used for longer than 30 minutes because otherwise there is a risk of necrosis. Necrosis is a local dying off of the tissue.

This treatment method for erectile dysfunction appears to not be very effective and is therefore used less and less.

Latest publication date: 13/12/2023
Supervising author: Dr Ameye Filip