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Erectile dysfunction |
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the inability to have or maintain a satisfactory erection to achieve penetration during sexual intercourse. Many medical conditions and medications may contribute to male erectile dysfunction including but not limited to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, neurologic conditions, depression and previous radical urologic or colorectal surgery. The goal of the history and physical examination is to identify any underlying previously undiagnosed medical conditions which when corrected might reverse the erectile dysfunction.
A group of medications known as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors have been introduced which have revolutionized the management of ED. Sildenafil (Viagra), was the first of this new class of oral drugs, approved by the FDA in 1998 for the treatment of ED. Vardenafil(Levitra) and Tadalafil(Cialis) were released in 2003. There are many other treatment modalities other than medications.
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