Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a modern, non-invasive method of treating selected urological conditions. The procedure involves the use of low-energy acoustic waves that are precisely directed to the areas affected by the disease.
These waves cause micro-damage to tissues, which stimulates repair processes – including neovascularization (the formation of new blood vessels), reduced inflammation and improved cellular metabolism.
1. Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
ESWT is effective in men with mild to moderate vascular erectile dysfunction. It improves blood flow to the penis and the quality of erection.
2. Peyronie’s Disease
Shockwaves can relieve pain and slow the development of fibrosis and penile curvature.
3. Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS)
ESWT supports the treatment of pelvic pain associated with prostatitis or pelvic floor muscle tension.
Shockwave therapy for Peyronie’s disease involves precisely directing an acoustic wave to the site of hardening in the tunica albuginea of the penis – the so-called Peyronie’s plaque.
The shockwave action leads to softening of this area, which facilitates the later use of stretching devices (so-called extenders) and increases the effectiveness of the treatment.
The best therapeutic effects are achieved by simultaneous use of shockwave and extender, but success requires great conscientiousness and systematicity from the patient.
An additional benefit of shockwave therapy may be the improvement of erection, which is often weakened in patients with Peyronie’s disease.
Shockwave therapy in the treatment of erectile dysfunction involves stimulating the formation of new blood vessels in the corpora cavernosa of the penis (called angiogenesis). These are fresh vessels, not affected by atherosclerosis, which improve the blood supply to the penis.
This increases the blood flow to the corpora cavernosa, which translates into faster and easier erection, better control of it, and greater stiffness of the penis.
However, the procedure only works in men with vascular erectile dysfunction, which is related to the stiffening and aging of arteries.
In other cases (e.g. hormonal, psychogenic or post-traumatic causes), causal treatment is necessary.
Shockwave therapy for chronic prostatitis or CPPS involves the transperineal application of an acoustic wave that stimulates local circulation and promotes the influx of cells responsible for fighting inflammation.
This can reduce pain and discomfort in the perineum, and the inflammation itself can subside more quickly.
Shockwave therapy does not replace basic treatment, such as targeted antibiotic therapy and anti-inflammatory drugs, but can significantly increase the effectiveness of therapy in selected patients.
Shockwave therapy is not recommended for patients with bleeding disorders, active infection in the genital area, pelvic cancer or recent heart attack. Qualification for therapy is determined by a urologist after interview and examination.
The treatment is usually well tolerated. Patients may feel a slight stinging or throbbing sensation, but it is not painful. The intensity can be adjusted if necessary.
The first effects may be felt after just a few treatments, but full improvement usually occurs after the entire series is completed.
ESWT is safe and rarely causes side effects. Only temporary redness or mild tenderness of the skin at the treatment site is possible.
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