Heart of the matter

A NEW procedure gives hope to men suffering from erectile dysfunction. It employs the stent, or an artificial tube similar to those used in heart arteries, which can be used in the internal pudendal artery, opening the vessel and allowing better blood flow to the penis.

Relatively unknown around the world and still in the research phase, the new procedure is described as a viable option to treat ED.

University Malaya Medical Centre consultant cardiologist and internal physician Dr Ramesh Singh Veriah says that should doctors be able to use angioplasty to treat ED, it would be a major breakthrough.

He says so far there have been two trials with the method Zen trial and Impassed trial that found benefits and also, differences and hindrances.

The problem right now is that the blood vessels in the pelvic region vary greatly and differ from men to men.

The procedure will take a lot of planning, money and we need to screen patients too. We hope to collaborate with Medtronic, he adds.

Medtronic Inc. is a manufacturer of pacemakers, heart stents and spine products.

Dr Ramesh says doctors should screen patients regularly for ED when they show signs like diabetes, hypertension, obesity and cardiovascular disease as well as those who smoke and drink.

SPEAK UP These, he says, are signs that a patient may be suffering from ED.

ED should also be addressed in the medical history of patients as it may be a symptom for early atherosclerosis, he says, adding that men should look at ED as a risk factor just like they do high blood pressure, high blood sugar and cholesterol.

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Heart of the matter