ASK THE DOCTOR - What are VSDs?

QUESTION:
I have heard a lot about Vacuum Suction Devices (VSDs) that is used to achieve good erection. Kindly give me some information about VSDs. What are they? Are there any side effects and do they really help?
- N. Reddy

ANSWER:
A Vacuum Suction Device (VSD) was designed to help men whose erections are not strong, or not as strong as they used to be, to enable them to engage in intercourse. This is a satisfactory solution for some men. However, if the pump is not used correctly, there can be loss of sensation, loss of penile skin, and even gangrene. If you are having trouble with erection, and this is a problem for you, I recommend that you see a qualified sexologist who can check, among other things, your blood flow. The VSD is only a temporary solution to erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction is a treatable condition in a majority of cases, and you should approach a sexologist for help.

Source:
Radical Prostatectomy Surgery in India

ASK THE DOCTOR - ‘How does a vacuum suction device work?’

QUESTION:

For erectile dysfunction (ED), some sexologists advise a ‘vacuum suction device’. How do they work? Are there any side effects of using such a device? 

- Jayant 

ANSWER:

A vacuum suction device (VSD) is also called a ‘penile pump’. It was designed to help those men whose erections are not firm, or not as firm as it used to be earlier, to make it possible for them to penetrate the vagina and perform sexual intercourse. A vacuum suction device is a good option for men in this situation. However, if the device is not used properly, it can cause serious loss of sensations, loss of penile skin, and even gangrene. If you are having difficulty with an erection — and this is a problem for you, I suggest that you consult a qualified sexologist who can assess, among other things, your penile blood flow. The VSD is only a temporary solution to erectile dysfunction. Erectile Dysfunction is a treatable condition in a majority of cases, and you should approach a sexologist for help.