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Posted 4/24/2010 7:34 PM (GMT 0)
I am new to board, seems like a great place to share info! Had RARP procedure 4/12 and catheter out 4/22. So far my continence not too much of an issue, other than some rather significant burning on urination. My question: when to start getting serious about ED issues, and is use of pump along with drug treatment a good way to go? How long after saying so long to the catheter do most begin ED work? I do have faith in my Urologist, but find that advice from fellow travelers is very helpful. Thanks!
Posted 4/24/2010 7:46 PM (GMT 0)
Charlie, welcome to the Forum. Most guys begin to start ED recovery as soon as the catheter is out. By that I mean, we usually begin trying the big 3 ed pills, in what is called a maintaince dose, 3 days a week, normally a quarter doses -25mg of a 100 mg pill of Viagra, just to improve blood circulation and infusion in the area. I suppose the "average" guy will begin using a VED- pump at about 6 to 8 weeks, and if no response from the pills or pump will move on to the pricks at 3 months or after. Pricks being penile injections of alprostadil, trimix or bimix solutions. In my opinion the pump should be used as long as you have ed, to maintain blood infusion, tissue stretching and cavity extension, even if it's a year or two later. There's loads of threads here dealing with ED recovery. Here's a link to some of the recent ones:

www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=35&m=1620929

Hope this is helpful and I am sure others will come along and correct me if they do it different.. smilewinkgrin
Posted 4/24/2010 8:02 PM (GMT 0)
lax, welcome here.

on the painful burning part, ask your dr. for pyridium. its a cheap generic drug, generally will take all the pain and burn out of your urine. becarfull if you use it, as it turns your pee bright orange, and it will stain what it touches. some claime it can tint your contact lenses if you wear them. the drug works well, though, and easy to find.

david in sc
Posted 4/25/2010 12:53 PM (GMT 0)
Seems odd your doctor hasn't addressed the issue with you AND your partner!!!
Henry Ford offers a class on the very issue about a week after one's surgery. Pills, a pump, Muse (penile suppository), and shots are explained with a couple of Muse samples. Personally doing 25MG Viagra / nightly (purchased to Canada drugs). A years supply was $238.00. Many of the younger guys in my class went for the shots which I understand work well and are demonstrated in the doctors clinic.
Posted 4/25/2010 3:36 PM (GMT 0)
What has the advice been which you've received from your Urologist?
Posted 4/25/2010 5:30 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Charlie,

Every patient is different BUT I am surprised your Uro did not go over this in depth. Mine had me start seeing a ED specific Dr and from the weeks leading up to my surgery He had me on a plan, so I knew once the catheter came out the tings I needed to do and then followed up with him every 6 weeks or so to go over my ED resolution

Check back with your URO and see if there is ED specialist in his practice, most large hospitals have an ED specialist on staff

Note: ED recovery begins BEFORE surgery, mine had me taking viagra 50mg daily 1 week leading up to my surgery, pump also, I ordered it and had it ready to go and became comfortable with how to use it BEFORE surgery
Posted 4/27/2010 8:30 PM (GMT 0)
My doc did cover this in detail, and has suggested I begin erectile rehab after 6 weeks, I am curioous if any have started with viagra/cialis etc. prior to that time. It appears that many have. Thanks!
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