Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a clinical condition characterized by the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. It is a multifactorial disorder, often associated with vascular, metabolic, neurological, or psychological conditions, which can significantly affect a man's quality of life and relational well-being.
In recent years, low-intensityextracorporeal shock wave therapy (LI-ESWT) has established itself as a valid treatment option, particularly in cases of erectile dysfunction of vascular origin.
Low-intensity shock wave therapy is based on the application of acoustic pulses focused on the tissues of the corpora cavernosa. Unlike symptomatic treatments, this method acts at the pathophysiological level, stimulating regenerative biological processes.
The main effects include:
stimulation of neovascularization (formation of new blood vessels);
improvement in penile blood flow;
activation of growth factors and endothelial repair mechanisms;
improvement in endothelial function and vasodilatory response.
These mechanisms help restore a more natural and lasting erectile function.
Shockwave therapy is mainly indicated in patients with mild or moderate vasculogenicerectile dysfunction , reducedresponse or intolerance to oral medications, erectile dysfunction associated with diabetes, hypertension, or metabolic syndrome, and selected outcomes of prostate surgery, subject to specialist evaluation.
The treatment is non-invasive, painless or minimally uncomfortable, does not require anesthesia, and is performed on an outpatient basis. The protocol generally involves several sessions spread out over time, according to personalized recommendations.
The therapy has a high safety profile, with rare and mild side effects, and does not require recovery time or restrictions on normal daily activities.
In any case, a thorough urological and andrological evaluation is essential to identify patients who can derive the greatest benefit from treatment.
The goal is not only to improve erectile function, but also to promote sexual health as an essential component of overall male well-being.
