Intracavernosal platelet-rich plasma therapy for erectile dysfunction: Current evidence and future directions

Abstract

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance, affecting over 50% of men aged 50 and older. ED is often linked to lifestyle factors and comorbidities, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Although conventional treatments such as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5is) and penile prostheses are commonly used, there is increasing interest in regenerative therapies, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP), which may address the underlying causes of ED. This narrative review examines ongoing trials on intracavernosal PRP for ED to better understand its potential as a treatment and offers recommendations for future research to improve the quality of evidence supporting its use. A literature search was conducted in December 2024 across PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus for articles evaluating PRP for ED. The keywords used for search were PRP, ED, and randomized controlled trial. The review focused on relevant studies, with titles, abstracts, and full texts examined for key details. Five randomized clinical trials, two meta-analyses, and a systematic review were identified, revealing significant variability in PRP preparation, dosage, and follow-up protocols, which hindered definitive conclusions about its efficacy. Although the available evidence suggests promising potential for PRP in ED treatment, methodological inconsistencies highlight the need for further research. Standardization of PRP preparation and administration protocols, along with larger and longer-term trials, is essential to establish its clinical benefits for ED treatment.

Keywords

clinical trials / erectile dysfunction / platelet-rich plasma / regenerative therapy

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