Recent advances in the understanding and management of erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is important to a man’s well-being and health, since it not only affects the individual but also causes strain on a couple’s lifestyle and relationship. There are multiple non-invasive treatments that exist for ED including lifestyle changes, oral medications (phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors), vacuum-assisted erectile devices, and intraurethral suppositories. While lifestyle changes and oral medications are typically first-line treatments for ED, more-invasive treatments including intracavernosal injections and surgically implanted prosthetic devices may be required for the management of complex cases. Additionally, novel therapies are currently being developed, and future treatment options may include shock-wave therapy, external prosthetic devices, and injection of stem cells or platelet-rich plasma. The current manuscript seeks to highlight advances in management and may eventually alter the treatment paradigm to allow more-inclusive care pathways.