Vacuum constriction device for management of erectile impotence.

A mechanical device for treatment of impotence based on the concept of entrapment of blood in the penis following vacuum-assisted tumescence is described and more than 15,000 units have been marketed. A total of 1,517 users who acquired the device between 1974 and 1987 completed a questionnaire concerning the system. Of these patients 92 per cent either achieved an erection or an erection-like state that was satisfactory for intercourse and 77 per cent had intercourse at least every 2 weeks. No serious ill effect from use of the device has been reported a and it is particularly effective in the management of partial impotence. In selected patients the device is an alternative to either surgical placement of a penile prosthesis, intracavernous injection of vasoactive drugs or sexual abstinence.