(288) DOES HAVING ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION IMPACT THE PREFERENCE BETWEEN PENILE CONSTRICTION DEVICES?

Introduction

Penile constriction devices offer a noninvasive approach to improve sexual performance and erectile function, making them an attractive option for men. With the increasing variety of these devices available on the market, it is crucial to assess and compare patient preferences and device effectiveness to provide valuable insights into their clinical utility and patient satisfaction.

Objective

Our aim was to assess and compare the preference and effectiveness of two medical-grade penile constriction devices between those with erectile dysfunction and those without.

Methods

Between May and July of 2023, males were recruited via social media and prospectively enrolled into an IRB-approved, randomized, questionnaire-based study. Upon enrollment, the participants completed the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) and Androgen Deficiency in Aging Males (ADAM). Participants were randomized to which device (FirmTech (FT) vs Eddie by Giddy) they received first. In a two-week timeframe, they used the device twice either during masturbation or intercourse. Once utilized, the participants completed a 17-question, five-point Likert scale device satisfaction questionnaire, in which lower numbers indicated more positive responses. The process was repeated with the second device. Paired T-test and McNemar Chi-Square analysis were run for statistical analysis. A p-value is considered significant if less than 0.05.

Results

Fifty men were enrolled and 49 completed the study. Having some degree of erectile dysfunction (ED) was determined based on SHIM scores <22. After matching the patients 2 to1 by age, 48 were included in the analysis. No significant preferences were determined between having ED and not having ED for the FT device. However, for Eddie by Giddy those with ED felt that they had a higher degree of firmness than those without ED when using the device (Mean Difference (MD): -0.28, p = 0.0244). Both those with ED and without ED would be more likely to use FT in partnered sexual activity than Eddie by Giddy (MD: -0.53, p = 0.0171 and MD: -0.94, p = 0.0178). Table 1 summarizes other selected responses from the questionnaire.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that Eddie by Giddy may have an advantage in improving firmness for those with ED. However, when it comes to using the devices in partnered sexual activity regardless of ED status, both cohorts were more likely to use FT.

Disclosure

Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: FirmTech.

Clarification: Industry funding only - investigator initiated and executed study.

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: FirmTech.