Penile venous leak is a condition where the veins in the penis can’t hold blood properly, making it hard to get or keep an erection. This can be challenging, but there are treatments that can help. Here’s a simple guide to understanding one of the main treatments: penile venous leak embolization.
What is Penile Venous Leak Embolization?
Penile venous leak embolization is a procedure that helps fix the veins in the penis so they can hold blood better. This treatment works by blocking off certain veins in the pelvis, helping penile veins retain more blood. As a result, it can improve erections for many men with this condition
How Does the Procedure Work?
Getting Ready:
-
- Before the procedure, the doctor will give you twilight sedation and local anesthesia. This helps you relax and numbs the area so you don’t feel pain.
- A small injection of a medicine called alprostadil is given into the penis. This helps the doctor to identify leaky veins more easily.
During the Procedure:
-
- The doctor uses a needle to access the veins of the penis at the level of the pelvic region. Then, a tiny tube, called a micro sheath, is inserted to help guide the tools.
- A special type of X-ray called a venogram, along with a dye injection, is used to see which veins in the pelvis need treatment. This dye helps to make the veins more visible.
- The doctor then injects a liquid substance into the veins. This substance helps block off the veins that are leaking, which can help the penis hold blood better.
Success and Complications
The procedure has shown significant long-term clinical improvement in erectile function in 68%-82% of patients, with a complication rate of less than 5%. Some potential complications include:
-
- Minor Complications:
- Mild penile pain or discomfort
- Minor bleeding or bruising at the needle site
- Temporary swelling or redness
- Rare but More Serious Complications:
- Pulmonary embolism (a rare condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs)
- Infection at the injection site
- Allergic reaction to the dye or medication used
- Minor Complications:
Conclusion
Penile venous leak embolization is a promising option for men with penile venous leak who have trouble with erections. It’s a relatively safe procedure that can make a big difference in quality of life. If you think you might have this condition, talk to your doctor about whether this treatment could be right for you.
