More and more treatment options for erectile dysfunction (ED) are reaching the final stages of research. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is one of them. PRP has been used in the medical community for decades. Researchers discovered that the concentration of platelets in PRP stimulates cell development and regeneration in various types of tissues. PRP is currently used in cosmetic surgery, orthopedics and to help heal wounds. It is now being studied as a treatment option for ED, too.
ED is characterized as difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. It can be caused by many factors, such as medications, medical conditions, aging and changes to the tissue in the penis. Erectile dysfunction is one of the most common sexual problems for men, with approximately 15 to 30 million men in the U.S. diagnosed. ED rates have increased during the last twenty to thirty years, especially among younger men. According to a study from the Journal of Sexual Medicine, one out of every four ED patients is under 40 years old.
PRP therapy is usually recommended for men who experience ED as part of the natural aging process. Similar to the tissues in your face or body, penile tissues breaks down over time. By utilizing growth promoting properties, PRP promotes the healing of soft and hard tissue by accelerating the repair of aged and damaged tissue. PRP contains multiple growth factors, hormones, nutrients, protein stabilizers and bioactive compounds that are important for cellular and tissue regeneration, as well as penile health.
PRP works by utilizing the patient’s own blood that contains adult stem cells and growth factors. Blood is drawn from the patient and then placed in a centrifuge to isolate the plasma and concentrate platelets and growth factors. The concentrated blood is then injected into the penis in order to promote the growth of blood vessels and nerves. This also has the potential to repair damaged tissue, decrease the inflammatory response and remodel vascular tissue in the penis to restore erectile function.
Evidence suggests that using PRP for ED helps increase circulation within the penis. It’s also shown to boost the effectiveness of ED like Viagra and Cialis.
Typically, PRP treatments for ED cause minimal pain and can be done in-office without general anesthesia. Although PRP isn’t here yet, it is well on the way to becoming an effective and safe treatment option for ED. If you are interested in learning more about PRP treatments offered at Austin Urology Institute, contact us to schedule an appointment with a provider at 512.694.8888.
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