Extract

Objective

Low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LIESWT) induces neovascularization and potentially enhances penile perfusion and improves erectile function. This study evaluates the clinical outcomes of LIESWT in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) with a minimum 24 months follow up.

Methods

Open-label single arm prospective study on ED patients with IIEF-5 score >12 at baseline were enrolled between June 2013 and June 2014 following informed consent. Patient demographics, change in International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-5 and Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS) scores, and overall satisfaction score (on a 5-point scale) were recorded. All patients received standardized treatment protocol based on manufacturer’s guideline and were followed at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months after LIESWT.

Results

All patients successfully completed the treatment course and no patient reported any adverse event. The average follow up following completion of LIESWT was 35.8 (26-40) months. The percentage of patients who reported an improvement in IIEF-5 score by 5 points were 60%, 55% and 41% and EDITS scores >50% were 70%, 65% and 58% at 6, 12 and 24 months following completion of LIESWT. The overall satisfaction rate remained sustained at intermediate term follow up (4 out of 5; 67% at 6 months vs 50% at 24 months; p=0.18).

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