Vacuum erection devices

Vacuum erection devices and intracavernosal injections are highly effective for many patients, but side effects, lack of spontaneity, and fear of needles limit their widespread use as first-line therapy. 

Vacuum erection devices (VEDs) induce erections by creating a vacuum around the penis the negative pressure draws blood into the penis by passively dilating arteries and engorging the corpora cavernosa. The erection is maintained with a constriction band placed at the base of the penis to reduce venous outflow (Fig. 48-2). They may be used as often as desired, but it is recommended that the constriction band not be in place longer than 30 minutes at a time. 

Vacuum erection devices (VEDs) are first-line therapy for older patients. VEDs should be limited to patients who have stable sexual relations, because the onset of action is slow (i.e., approximately 30 minutes). 

Specific treatment is first initiated with least invasive forms of treatment, including vacuum erection devices and oral... 

Vacuum erection devices have a slow onset of action (30 minutes) and therefore are most effective in elderly couples in a stable relationship. 

Eltorai I, Memory R, Laurente F. Gangrene of the penis in a tetraplegic due to the use of vacuum constriction device for erection. Sex Disabil 2000 18 105-14. 

Figure 1.2 A barometer is a device for measuring pressures. A vacuum-filled glass tube (sealed at one end) is placed in a trough of mercury with its open end beneath the surface of the liquid metal. When the tube is erected, the pressure of the external air presses on the surface and forces mercury up the tube. The height of the mercury column li is directly proportional to the external pressure p...

Vacuum tumescence constriction therapy is the use of an external device that creates a vacuum to cause penile erection, which is then maintained by a constriction band. It produces rigidity sufficient for intercourse in 91% of men, with satisfaction in 80%. 

Soderdahl DW, Thrasher JB, Hansberry KL. Intracavemosal drug-induced erection therapy versus external vacuum devices i n the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Br J Urol 1997 79 952-957. 

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