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Myron I. Murdock, M.D., F.A.C.S.
External Compression Device External compression devices are used to trap blood within the penis maintaining an erection. There are two main groups of compression devices: simple constricting devices to be used by those men who get erections but easily lose them; and vacuum compression devices that create an erection and then sustain it. Simple compression devices are usually rubber or silicone winged rings supplied with an applier, the Revive Rings, or a slip tube, (made like a rubber bolo tie), the Actis device. They are placed at the base of the erect penis and trap the erection. They should not be left in place more than 30 minutes, and should not be used by patients with bleeding problems or on blood thinners. External vacuum erection devices, (VEDs), are effective in approximately 75% of patients. However, the learning curve is significant, it takes a great deal of practice and perseverance to learn their use, but when mastered, they can be used quickly and effectively. It involves placing a plastic cylinder over the shaft of the penis, pressing against the base of the pelvis, to get a seal and using a vacuum pump to produce a vacuum in the cylinder, drawing blood into the penis and allowing an erection to form. A compressor band is slipped over the base of the penis holding the blood within the penis, the vacuum is then released and the cylinder removed. There have been no significant serious problems related to vacuum compression devices if used properly, and if the constriction band is not allowed to remain in place more than thirty minutes. The device is contraindicated in those patients who have sickle cell disease or other bleeding disorders or are on significant anticoagulant, (blood thinning), therapy. There are approximately fifteen to twenty manufacturers of these devices with costs ranging between $89 and $400. Most of the vacuum- producing components are mechanical, however, there are battery operated devices as well. [Back] [Oral Meds] [Urethral Meds] [Injectable Meds] [External Devices] [Implants] [Future Therapy] |
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[Home] Werner - Francis Urology Associates llc - Mid Atlantic Urology Associates llc Greenbelt - Bowie - Laurel Maryland (301) 441-8900 Fax (301) 982 0453 7500 Hanover Parkway Suite 206 Greenbelt, MD 20770
Rev:03/08 |