Erectile dysfunction (ED) is when you can’t get or keep an erection firm enough for satisfying sex. There are many possible causes, including problems with blood flow, nerve damage, psychological issues, and hormone imbalances.
One cause of ED is venous leak, which is when blood drains out of the penis too quickly for you to get or maintain an erection. Venous leak embolization is a minimally invasive treatment for this condition. The goal of the procedure is to block or reduce the abnormal blood drainage, thus improving erections.
What is the venous leak embolization success rate? This article explores the procedure itself, its success rates, and other factors to consider.
Understanding Venous Leak and Embolization
What is Venous Leak?
To understand venous leak, it helps to know how erections work. When a man becomes aroused, blood flow to the corpora cavernosa (the erectile tissues in the penis) increases. Normally, veins in the penis constrict, restricting blood outflow, which helps maintain rigidity.
Venous leak happens when abnormal venous channels allow blood to escape from the penis too quickly. This prevents the penis from becoming fully erect or staying erect.
How Embolization Addresses Venous Leak
Embolization is a procedure that aims to block or reduce abnormal blood flow through the leaky veins. Doctors use special materials called embolic agents to plug these veins.
By blocking the abnormal veins, embolization redirects blood flow back to the corpora cavernosa, which can help promote better, firmer erections. Other methods, such as topical sildenafil cream, may also be considered.
The Venous Leak Embolization Procedure
So, what can you expect if you decide to pursue venous leak embolization?
Preparation for the Procedure
First, you’ll have a consultation. Your doctor will want to know all about your medical history and any previous exams or treatments you’ve had. Be prepared to discuss ICD-10 coding for ED, and any medications you’re taking, too.
You’ll also get pre-operative instructions. This might include fasting for a certain period before the procedure and possibly stopping some of your medications temporarily.
Steps of the Embolization Procedure
The procedure itself usually goes like this:
- You’ll get local anesthesia to numb the area.
- The doctor will insert a small catheter into a blood vessel.
- Using fluoroscopy (that’s real-time X-ray imaging), the doctor will guide the catheter to the exact spot where the venous leak is happening.
- Then, they’ll inject tiny particles or other embolic agents to block those leaking veins.
Post-operative Care and Recovery
The good news is that this is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. Most people can get back to their normal routines within a few days.
You’ll also have follow-up appointments with your doctor to make sure everything is healing as it should.
Success Rates of Venous Leak Embolization
When we talk about how well venous leak embolization works, it’s important to understand the difference between “technical success” and “clinical success.” Technical success means the procedure successfully blocked the targeted veins, something confirmed with imaging. Clinical success means the patient reports an actual improvement in erectile function and sexual satisfaction.
So, what do the studies say?
A 2012 study published in Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology followed 29 patients. Researchers reported a 93.1% technical success rate and an 88.8% overall clinical success rate. The study concluded that endovascular therapy could help men with erectile dysfunction caused by venous leaks.
Another study, from 2014, followed 18 patients and also reported positive results, with improved erections still being reported at 13 months. The authors concluded that embolization was an effective and safe way to treat erectile dysfunction caused by venous leaks.
A 2019 meta-analysis looked at data from 212 patients and found technical success rates ranging from 86% to 97%. In terms of improvement, 59.5% of patients experienced either partial or complete improvement in erectile function. This meta-analysis evaluated the safety and efficacy of endovascular therapy for erectile problems linked to veno-occlusive dysfunction or arterial insufficiency.
Of course, the success of this procedure can depend on several factors, including:
- How well the patient is selected for the procedure
- How severe the venous leak is
- The skill and experience of the interventional radiologist performing the procedure
Risks, Side Effects, and Cost Considerations
As with any medical procedure, it’s important to understand the potential downsides of venous leak embolization.
Potential Side Effects and Complications
Most guys don’t experience serious problems, but it’s still good to be aware of the possibilities.
Common side effects are generally mild and temporary, such as pain or discomfort where the doctor inserted the catheter.
Rare complications could include infection, an allergic reaction to the contrast dye used during the procedure, or a hematoma (a collection of blood) at the insertion site.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of venous leak embolization can vary, so it’s important to have an open conversation with your doctor’s office and your insurance provider to understand the financial implications.
In some countries, the cost may be covered by national health insurance or supplementary insurance plans. It’s definitely worth investigating your coverage options beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to increase blood flow to pennis
While this article focuses on venous leaks, there are general lifestyle changes that may help improve blood flow. These include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and managing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Can you live a long life with venous insufficiency
Yes, venous insufficiency itself isn’t typically life-threatening. However, it can lead to complications that affect your quality of life. Managing venous insufficiency with lifestyle changes and medical treatments can help minimize these complications and allow for a long, healthy life.
Can a 70 year old man still get hard
Yes, erectile function is possible at any age. While it may naturally decline with age, many men in their 70s can achieve and maintain an erection. Factors such as overall health, medications, and underlying conditions can play a role.
Why does a venous leak happen
A venous leak occurs when the veins in the pennis don’t properly restrict blood flow during an erection. This can be due to various factors, including age-related changes, underlying medical conditions like diabetes, or damage to the veins.
What is the new treatment for venous leak
Venous leak embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that’s emerging as a promising treatment option. It involves blocking off the leaking veins to redirect blood flow and improve erectile function. It’s considered a newer approach compared to traditional surgery.
Summary
If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction due to venous leak, venous leak embolization is a minimally invasive treatment that may help.
The procedure has a promising success rate, but it’s important to speak with a qualified interventional radiologist to see if you’re a good candidate for the procedure and learn more about what to expect.