Vacuum constriction device and topical minoxidil for management of impotence.

OBJECTIVE

We report our preliminary experience with a vacuum constriction device and topical minoxidil for the management of impotence.

METHODS

We evaluated 18 patients, 8 with neurogenic and 10 with psychogenic impotence with a vacuum constriction device and topical minoxidil (1 ml 2% solution).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

All patients responded to treatment but 100 cases refused home use because of psychological impact. Twelve patients did not need the application of the constrictive ring because of the erection facilitation effect of minoxidil. No side effects were observed. In our opinion the association of the vacuum constriction device with topical minoxidil might be useful in the treatment of impotence; however, several factors must be evaluated in selecting patients. Application of minoxidil before vacuum constriction device might be useful to reduce the time of device application, to increase the efficacy of the device and in some cases to avoid the use of the constrictive ring.