Scientific advances and evidence-based management in erectile dysfunction
Significant advances have been made in the diagnosis and treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) over the last half century. In the early 1970’s, ED or previously known as impotence, was thought to be related to psychogenic causes as popularised by Masters and Johnson; however, advances in our understanding of molecular biological factors and mechanisms governing sexual function have demonstrated that the underlying pathogenesis for ED is frequently multifactorial in nature. Furthermore, published literature has shown that ED is closely linked to underlying cardiovascular dysfunction and endothelial dysfunction, highlighting the need to screen men with ED for coronary risk factors and disease.
Scientific evaluation in this field is needed to increase our knowledge and foster evidence-based best practice in men with ED. The current state of ED research is exciting and, in this issue, we present the state of art papers that address various aspects in medical and surgical management of ED. We aim to address the various controversies surrounding key issues such as reviewing the current evidence to support penile rehabilitation; examining the facts on ED, endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease; raising awareness on the risks of counterfeit ED medications; exploring new pharmacotherapeutic agents; and revisiting the advances in the last 40 decades in penile prosthesis implant surgery. Novel and exciting topics in this edition include the concept of masculinity in men with ED, the role of traditional medicine in complementing modern ED treatment, and how to assess and manage fit and healthy men under 40 years old who have ED. As ED is invariably associated with penile length loss, separate topics dedicated to Peyronie’s disease and ED, and penile lengthening surgery are discussed too.
We thank the authors and reviewers who concentrated their expertise, time, and effort on this stimulating edition. We hope the readers will find this edition highly educative and inspirational, and provide evidence-based guidance to manage and improve the overall healthcare in men with ED.
We take this opportunity to wish TAU readers a happy, safe and festive New Year celebration.
