Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center

Urology and Continence Center

Male Sexual Function

Impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction, is defined as a consistent inability to sustain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. In the United States, between 10 and 15 million men are affected by this disorder. Many are unaware that it can be treated, either medically or surgically, and cured.

The underlying causes of impotence may include disease, injury and medication side effects. Diabetes, kidney disease, chronic alcoholism, multiple sclerosis, atherosclerosis and vascular disease account for approximately 70 percent of cases of impotence. When these conditions are managed or cured, impotence may disappear.

Surgery, including prostate surgery, may injure nerves and arteries located near the penis, causing erectile dysfunction. High blood pressure medications, antihistamines, antidepressants, tranquilizers, appetite suppressants and other prescribed drugs may also contribute to impotence.

While the incidence of the disorder increases with age – about 5 percent of men at the age of 40 and between 15 and 25 percent of men at the age of 65 experience impotence – erectile dysfunction is not inevitable.

Treatments available at Memorial Hermann-TMC include:

• Oral medication
• Vacuum erectile devices
• Penile injection therapy
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Penile prosthesis implantation