The beginning of a new era: treatment of erectile dysfunction by use of physical energies as an alternative to pharmaceuticals

This introductory manuscript aims to familiarize the concept of the ability of certain forces or energies applied on the penis. This concept is described and discussed in more detail for three optional applicative energies; shock wave energy via mechano-transduction, ultrasound energy via its theoretical unique effect on the cellular membrane, specifically cyclic separation of the two phospholipid layers, creating biochemical, functional and structural tissue changes. Radio frequency energy via its heating effect is proven to induce immediate changes on collagen strucures and on realignment of collagen fibers, as well as induction of local vasodilation. Applying any of these energies on the erectile tissue may potentially affect biochemical processes, which through different mechanisms lead to a beneficial clinical effect on erectile function