An
erection is caused by an increase in blood flow to the penis when a
man is sexually aroused. Vacuum therapy duplicates this process.
The erecaid creates an erection by
placing the penis in a vacuum cylinder and applying a gentle
negative pressure vacuum with a manual or battery operated pump. The
negative vacuum draws blood into the penis which
creates the erection. The erection is then maintained by a specially
designed tension ring that is transferred by the patient from the
device to the base of the penis. The erection will be maintained as
long as the band is on, even through ejaculation. The tension band will hold the
erection for up to 30 minutes. Warning: The tension band should not be worn over 30 minutes.
The
vacuum device is 90% effective. Most failures occur from improper
use of the device. Practicing with the device several times will
improve results. Be sure to read all instructions. See “What if my vacuum device
does not work?” if you are experiencing problems, call or or e-mail us
confidentially at
info@reachmedical.com for answers to user problems.
Most
failures are due to improper use. However, the device will not work
for a small percentage of men who may be sensitive to the vacuum
pressure or who may be anatomically restricted. Common mistakes
include; not using the proper lubricant or amount of lubricant,
allowing enough time for penile engorgement, or using the wrong
tension band. Using the right lubricant is a critical part of
the process. Use a generous amount of water based lubricant like
Soma Therapy Lubricant or Osbon Lubricant on the pubic hair and on the penile shaft. The
lubricant aids in maintaining the vacuum seal through hair and skin
which is necessary for engorgement and allows the penis expansion in
the cylinder. Do not use a petroleum-based product for the vacuum
process and try to keep as much lubricant as possible off the
testicles.
Maintaining vacuum level is another common mistake. The maximum
vacuum one should use is the amount tolerable without experiencing
pain or discomfort. The erection does not always engorge at the same
time vacuum is increased. The maximum tolerable vacuum should be
maintained until the penis becomes fully engorged. This process may
take a few minutes. Transfer the band to the base of the penis while
the vacuum is still applied. Losing vacuum before the band is
transferred can cause a loss of engorgement. The tension ring should
be tight enough to hold the erection during intercourse, but should
not be worn over 30 minutes. You may have to experiment with
different size bands to find the proper tension required for your
success. Some men experience excessive venous and require a special
high-tension ring. See parts and
accessories for ordering information. If you are a customer and
have questions regarding the use of your vacuum device, e-mail us at
info@reachmedical.com for
professional assistance.
Vacuum devices are currently being used in combination with other
treatment therapies such as oral medications, supplements,
injections and others to improve their marginal performance. The
pump can be used to improve partial erections and the tension ring
can help prevent losing erections prematurely during intercourse.
Recent studies have shown using the device as a therapy can help
increase the performance of oral medications. This includes using
the device in therapy sessions to improve blood flow to the penis.
Penile Vacuum Therapy is using the device in therapy sessions by
intermittently drawing and releasing vacuum to the penis to increase
blood flow to that area. This is done with out using the tension
band. Performing regular therapy sessions may help open penile
arteries and can possibly restore naturally elasticity. This
exercise therapy has proven to increase men’s response to erectile
medications. Click here to view a physicians forum report about
penile vacuum therapy.
Tension bands are not used during PVT. Place the vacuum device over
the penis. Be sure to use an adequate amount of water-based
lubricant to maintain an airtight seal. Begin to apply vacuum to a
comfortable maximum level. Hold the vacuum between thirty seconds
and one minute and then release. Wait for at least ten seconds after
the vacuum is released and repeat the process. Continue the session
for no more than ten minutes, three to five times a week. Perform no
more than one session during the course of a day. Try your erectile
medication again after a month of therapy. It may take several weeks
or months to notice improvement in medications depending on your
condition.
Some
insurance companies cover vacuum erection devices under durable
medical equipment. Usually, a letter of medical necessity is
required from your Physician. Reach Medical, Inc. will provide a
written receipt for your order that you may use to apply for
reimbursement from your insurance company.
Vacuum erection devices are a very safe method for treating
impotence. The tension band is not to be worn over (30) thirty
minutes. The blood must return to the body after thirty minutes.
Patients with sickle cell anemia or who take MAO inhibitors should
consult with a Physician before use.