Vascular ED Treatment in Singapore

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects many men, particularly when caused by vascular issues that restrict blood flow. For men experiencing ED due to underlying vascular conditions, effective treatment options exist. At our urology clinic in Singapore, vascular ED treatment addresses the root cause of erectile dysfunction related to blood vessel problems, helping restore normal function and improve quality of life. Our MOH-accredited urologists specialise in diagnosing and treating vascular-related ED using proven medical approaches tailored to each patient’s specific condition.

Vascular erectile dysfunction occurs when blood flow to the penis is insufficient due to problems with blood vessels. This represents the most common physical cause of ED, affecting up to 70% of men with erectile dysfunction. Vascular ED treatment encompasses various medical interventions designed to improve penile blood flow and restore erectile function.

The treatment addresses two main vascular issues: arterial insufficiency (inadequate blood flow into the penis) and venous leak (inability to trap blood within the penis). By targeting these underlying vascular problems, treatment can help men achieve and maintain erections suitable for sexual activity. The approach may involve medications, minimally invasive procedures, or surgical interventions, depending on the severity and specific nature of the vascular condition.

Treatment success often depends on addressing contributing factors such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and smoking, which can damage blood vessels over time. A comprehensive vascular ED treatment plan considers both the immediate erectile dysfunction and these underlying cardiovascular risk factors.

Ideal Candidates

• Men with confirmed vascular causes of erectile dysfunction through diagnostic testing
• Patients with arterial insufficiency affecting penile blood flow
• Those with venous leak (corporal veno-occlusive dysfunction)
• Men who have not responded adequately to oral ED medications
• Patients with ED related to cardiovascular disease or diabetes
• Men seeking alternatives to ongoing medication use
• Those motivated to address underlying vascular health issues

Contraindications

• Severe cardiovascular disease requiring immediate cardiac intervention
• Uncontrolled hypertension or recent stroke
• Active bleeding disorders or anticoagulation that cannot be temporarily stopped
• Severe liver or kidney dysfunction
• Anatomical penile abnormalities incompatible with certain procedures
• Psychological ED without vascular component

A thorough evaluation by an MOH-accredited urologist is essential to determine whether vascular ED treatment is appropriate. This assessment includes reviewing medical history, conducting physical examinations, and performing specific diagnostic tests to confirm vascular involvement in the erectile dysfunction.

Oral Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) Inhibitors

PDE5 inhibitors remain the first-line treatment for vascular ED. These medications work by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide, relaxing penile blood vessels and increasing blood flow. Different PDE5 inhibitors offer varying durations of action and onset times, allowing customisation based on patient needs and lifestyle. Success rates range from 60-70% in men with vascular ED, though effectiveness may decrease with severe vascular disease.

Intracavernosal Injection Therapy

For patients who don’t respond to oral medications, penile injection therapy offers a direct approach. Medications injected into the penis cause immediate blood vessel dilation, producing erections within 5-20 minutes. Common agents include alprostadil, papaverine, and phentolamine, often used in combination. This method achieves success rates exceeding 85% and works regardless of nerve function, making it particularly effective for vascular ED.

Low-Intensity Shockwave Therapy

This non-invasive treatment uses acoustic waves to stimulate new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) in penile tissue. The therapy promotes natural healing processes, potentially improving blood flow over time. Treatment typically involves multiple sessions over several weeks, with studies showing improvement in mild to moderate vascular ED cases.

Technology & Equipment Used

Modern vascular ED treatment utilises diagnostic and therapeutic equipment. Penile Doppler ultrasound assesses blood flow patterns and identifies specific vascular abnormalities. Shockwave therapy devices deliver precise energy levels to target tissues. Injection systems ensure accurate medication delivery with minimal discomfort.

Pre-Treatment Preparation

Before initiating vascular ED treatment, comprehensive evaluation ensures appropriate therapy selection. This includes detailed medical history, physical examination, and blood tests checking hormone levels, blood sugar, and cholesterol. Penile Doppler ultrasound may be performed to assess blood flow patterns. Patients should list all current medications, as some may need adjustment. Lifestyle modifications such as smoking cessation and exercise may be recommended to optimise treatment outcomes.

During the Procedure

The treatment experience varies by chosen method. For oral medications, patients receive detailed instructions on timing and dosage. Injection therapy involves teaching self-administration techniques in a clinical setting, ensuring comfort and confidence. Shockwave therapy sessions last 15-20 minutes, with patients experiencing mild tingling sensations but no significant discomfort. Throughout any procedure, privacy and dignity are maintained, with clear communication about each step.

Immediate Post-Treatment

Following treatment initiation, patients receive comprehensive guidance on expected responses and potential side effects. For medications, monitoring includes assessing effectiveness and adjusting dosages as needed. Injection therapy patients practise technique under supervision before home use. After shockwave therapy, normal activities can resume immediately. All patients receive emergency contact information and clear instructions on when to seek immediate medical attention.

First 24-48 Hours

Most vascular ED treatments require minimal recovery time. Oral medication users should monitor for side effects like headaches or flushing. Injection therapy may cause mild bruising at injection sites, manageable with gentle pressure. Shockwave therapy patients might experience slight penile sensitivity, which typically resolves quickly. Sexual activity can usually resume as directed by the urologist, often within hours for medication-based treatments.

First Week

During the initial week, patients assess treatment effectiveness and report outcomes to their urologist. Medication dosages may require adjustment based on response. Those learning injection therapy continue practising technique and identifying optimal injection sites. Shockwave therapy patients attend scheduled sessions, typically 1-2 times weekly. Lifestyle modifications continue, including dietary improvements and exercise routines supporting vascular health.

Long-term Recovery

Long-term success involves ongoing management and regular follow-ups. Patients on medications require periodic review to ensure continued effectiveness and monitor for side effects. Those using injection therapy need prescription refills and technique reassessment. Shockwave therapy effects develop over 3-6 months, with some patients requiring maintenance sessions. Addressing underlying vascular risk factors remains crucial for sustained improvement.

Successful vascular ED treatment offers improvements in erectile function and overall quality of life. Men typically report increased confidence and reduced anxiety related to sexual performance. Restored erectile function strengthens intimate relationships and improves psychological well-being.

Beyond sexual health benefits, addressing vascular ED often leads to improved cardiovascular health awareness. Many patients adopt healthier lifestyles, including better diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation. These changes provide broader health benefits extending beyond erectile function.

Treatment can eliminate or reduce dependence on timing sexual activity around medication schedules. For suitable candidates, procedures like shockwave therapy may offer longer-lasting improvements without ongoing medication use. Many men find that successful treatment reduces relationship stress and improves overall life satisfaction.

Common Side Effects

Oral medications may cause headaches, facial flushing, nasal congestion, or mild visual changes. These effects typically diminish with continued use. Injection therapy can result in penile pain, prolonged erections, or minor bleeding at injection sites. Proper technique minimises these occurrences. Shockwave therapy occasionally causes temporary penile skin redness or mild discomfort during treatment.

Rare Complications

Serious complications remain uncommon with proper patient selection and technique. Priapism (prolonged erection lasting over 4 hours) requires immediate medical attention but occurs in less than 1% of properly managed cases. Penile scarring (Peyronie’s disease) may rarely develop with injection therapy. Medication interactions, particularly with nitrates, can cause dangerous blood pressure drops.

Risk minimisation involves careful patient screening, proper technique education, and regular monitoring. Our MOH-accredited urologists employ established protocols ensuring patient safety while maximising treatment effectiveness.

Vascular ED treatment costs vary based on the chosen approach and treatment duration. Initial consultation and diagnostic testing establish baseline costs. Oral medications require ongoing prescriptions, with prices varying by type and dosage. Injection therapy involves initial training costs plus ongoing medication expenses.

Shockwave therapy typically requires multiple sessions, with total costs depending on the number of treatments needed. Some patients benefit from combination approaches, affecting overall investment. The consultation includes discussion of all cost factors, helping patients make informed decisions based on their circumstances and treatment goals.

Quality care from experienced urologists helps ensure good outcomes and value. While cost matters, choosing treatment based solely on price may compromise results. Our clinic provides transparent pricing information during consultation, allowing patients to understand the full investment in their health.