Vacuum Erection Devices in Houston, TX
Men’s Health Specialist – Dr. Jonathan Clavell
VEDs are a useful, noninvasive treatment for erectile dysfunction. A VED draws blood into the penis by creating a vacuum, after which a constriction ring is placed at the base of the penis to maintain the erection for intercourse. Although there are many types of VEDs available, it is recommended that only those containing a vacuum limiter (a feature that limits the amount of vacuum pressure and reduces the potential for penile injury) be used, whether purchased with or without a prescription.
Studies on VED satisfaction and efficacy show a mean satisfaction rate of 75%. In men who do not respond to oral phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, VEDs may serve a role as a “rescue device.” A study of 69 men who failed oral medications and were treated with a combination of oral medications and VEDs for four weeks demonstrated a significant increase in International Index of Erectile Function scores.
The erectile state produced by VEDs differs from a normal erection: skin temperature is lower (secondary to the “pulling” of venous blood rather than arterial blood), the veins of the penis may appear distended, and penile circumference is increased. It may also require the patient to stabilize the penis during intercourse.
Dr. Jonathan Clavell is a board-certified, fellowship-trained urologist and men’s health specialist in Houston, TX. If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction, schedule your consultation with Dr. Clavell today.
How Does the VED Work?
The penis and constriction rings are coated with lubricant, and the rings are loaded onto the base of the cylinder. The cylinder is then placed over the penis with the base held firmly against the pubic bone to maintain a seal.
The pump is then activated to slowly create a vacuum with negative pressure, inside the cylinder, which pulls blood into the penis to produce an erection. Once you feel a full erection, you may slide the constriction ring to the base of the penis to keep the blood inside the penis.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of VED?
The prostate continues to grow throughout a man’s life. Unfortunately, there is no known clear cause for prostate enlargement, although some research studies suggest that an imbalance in sex hormones as men get older may play a role.
Benefits of Using a VED
VEDs can be used to treat both organic and psychogenic ED. Current scientific literature suggests they are most helpful for patients with organic etiologies, such as diabetes, and for penile rehabilitation in patients with a history of prostate cancer treated with surgery or radiation.
After the prostate is removed (prostatectomy) for prostate cancer, the nerves—when preserved—often “go to sleep.” It may take several months to up to two years for those nerves to “wake up.” In the meantime, the penis may have difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection. The VED functions as a mechanical tool to help preserve penile size and keep penile tissues healthy while the body waits for nerve recovery. These “assisted erections” are part of penile rehabilitation, which is the process of restoring the penis to its normal function.
For penile rehabilitation, Dr. Clavell recommends that patients view the penis as a muscle or joint. Just as after knee surgery, when a series of exercises is required as part of the rehabilitation process, the penis also needs exercise to remain healthy. The VED helps exercise the penis. Patients are recommended to use the VED daily for this purpose.
Dr. Clavell and his team will teach you everything you need to know about the VED and other treatment options for ED to help maximize your results.
Jonathan Clavell, M.D., F.A.C.S
Board-Certified Urologist
Jonathan Clavell, M.D., F.A.C.S., is a board-certified urologist and fellowship-trained Sexual Medicine specialist providing advanced men’s health care to patients throughout Houston and the Southwest. He treats a full range of urologic conditions, including erectile dysfunction, BPH, Peyronie’s disease, vasectomy procedures, and complex men’s health concerns.
Dr. Clavell uses advanced minimally invasive and surgical techniques to deliver personalized, patient-centered care. He is also a national and international educator, training surgeons in penile implant surgery, Peyronie’s disease treatment, and Rezūm therapy for BPH, making his practice a trusted destination for specialized urologic care.
Schedule an Appointment in Houston, TX
Dr. Clavell will help you discover if a vacuum erection device is right for you! If you have any additional questions, please contact our Houston urology clinic at (713) 424-4030 and schedule an appointment today!