Abstract
Purpose: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the electromagnetic-type low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED). Materials and Methods: The randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind prospective study was performed at two referral hospitals. Participants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive sham or Li-ESWT for 6 weeks. ED was evaluated at screening and at 4 and 7 weeks after treatment. Participants were asked to complete the international index of erectile function-erectile function (IIEF-EF) domain questionnaire, erection hardness scale (EHS), and sexual encounter profile questionnaire (SEPQ 2 and 3). The development of complications was investigated. Results: Eighty-one of 96 patients completed the study. The median change in the IIEF-EF score in the Li-ESWT and sham groups was 5.1 and -2.2 (p<0.001), respectively, at the 7-week follow-up; 47.4% (18/38) patients had EHS <3, of which 77.8% (14/18) showed significant improvement in virtue of Li-ESWT treatment (p=0.001). A significant improvement was observed in the percentage of ‘Yes” responses to SEPQ 2 and 3 in the Li-ESWT group vs. sham group from baseline to 7-week follow-up (91.3% vs. 69.4%; p=0.008 and 50.0% vs. 14.3%; p=0.002, respectively). No patients reported pain or other adverse events during treatment or follow-up. Conclusions: Thus, Li-ESWT could have a role in improving erectile function. Furthermore, it is safe. We believe that Li-ESWT is an attractive new treatment modality for patients with ED.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 236-242 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | World Journal of Men?s Health |
Volume | 38 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2020 Apr |
Keywords
- Electromagnetic
- Erectile dysfunction
- Humans
- Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Reproductive Medicine
- Urology
- Psychiatry and Mental health
- Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
- Health Policy
- Ageing
- Pharmacology (medical)