sexual function
As you get older, it is normal for sexual function to decline to some extent. There are a number of reasons for this including the ageing process itself, which brings reduced levels of testosterone and hardening and narrowing of the arteries that supply the penis with blood. There may also be relationship issues. Radiation treatments for prostate cancer are likely to cause damage; and erectile problems after radical prostatectomy are still common, despite the enhanced nerve preservation that is possible with the use of the da Vinci robot.
Sexual function is very important to most couples. While in the past such problems tended to be ignored both by men and their doctors, since the advent of oral therapy such as Viagra and the publicity that surrounded it, more and more men are realising that it may be possible to investigate and treat their condition.
The most common physical causes of erectile dysfunction (or ED) are conditions that impair arterial flow to the erectile tissues or disrupt the neuronal system, such as hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure or diabetes. These conditions are so often linked to ED that a man presenting with erectile difficulties may in the end find he is diagnosed with an underlying cause which can then be addressed, so reducing his risk of developing a potentially much more serious disease and thereby offering the possibility, at least, of restored sexual function.
So for serious health as well as quality-of-life reasons, we take a pro-active approach to any existing or anticipated ED problems. Tablets, vacuum devices, injection therapy and even surgical implants can all help to restore normal or acceptable function. When surgery is planned, we think it’s a good idea to discuss the possibilities before or shortly after surgery, setting up a penile rehabilitation programme with active and ongoing follow-up.
Professor Mike Kirby and Mrs Lorraine Grover each have the expertise and the sensitivity to help men with erectile difficulties, and have devised a programme to optimise recovery. They recommend that ideally, your partner should be present for these consultations so that the problem is approached on the basis of a couple rather than that of an individual.
If a surgical implant is your preferred or ultimate option, Mr Julian Shah will be happy to discuss the pros and cons with you, and perform the procedure.
Please note that investigations and treatment for ED will not be covered by health insurance, and you will have to settle the fees yourself. However, in certain circumstances you may be eligible for a very limited amount of medication on the NHS, which can be prescribed by your GP.