Platelet-rich plasma for erectile dysfunction: a review of the current research landscape

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve or maintain erection for satisfactory sexual performance. ED drastically reduces the quality of life for men and their partners and is commonly linked to comorbid conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. As a result, clinicians and researchers are working to improve treatments for ED. Current guideline-approved ED treatments include oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, intraurethral alprostadil, penile intracavernosal injections, and penile prosthesis surgery. Today, there is increasing interest in restorative therapies such as intracavernosal platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for the management of ED. Objectives This narrative review describes the current trials investigating intracavernosal PRP for ED and proposes future directions to increase the strength of evidence to support use of PRP in this population. Methods A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus was performed to identify all randomized clinical trials using PRP for the treatment of ED. Results We identified 4 randomized clinical trials investigating the safety and efficacy of PRP for ED. We found significant heterogeneity among study protocols, including collection of PRP, dosing of PRP, and follow-up. Conclusion While intracavernosal PRP is considered safe, its efficacy for the management of ED remains unknown due to variability among clinical trials.