Tests & Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction at University of Colorado Hospital

Tests for Erectile Dysfunction

Physical examination

Your doctor will examine you for possible causes of erectile dysfunction

Blood counts

Your blood is tested for infections and diseases

Urinalysis

Urine is tested for various compounds, like nitrates, blood, bacteria and crystallized minerals.

Lipid profile

A blood test that measures fat

Measurement of liver enzymes and creatinine

A blood test that checks for liver and kidney disease or damage

Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction

Lifestyle changes

Includes quitting smoking, losing weight and increasing exercise

Medications

Oral or injected drugs can help reverse erectile dysfunction

Vacuum devices

A mechanical device creates a vacuum that pulls blood into the penis; this helps create an erection.

Surgically implanted devices

One of two types of devices (malleable or inflatable) is surgically inserted into the penis. These can restore erections for many men with erectile dysfunction.

Surgery

There are two types of surgery for erectile dysfunction

• Surgery to repair arteries: can clear obstructions that block the flow of blood. This works best for young men with artery blockage caused by injury.
• Surgery to veins that allow blood to leave the penis: blocks off veins and prevents blood from leaking out of the penis during an erection.