Venous Leak: Difficult to Treat Cause of Erection Problems in Men  

by Alex Shteynshlyuger MD

When it comes to the treatment of erectile dysfunction – New York Urology Specialists are a step ahead.  Better Science Means Better Care.   


If you have any questions, to schedule a consultation, please contact us or call/text: 1-646-663-5211.

We have excellent reviews from patients and their partners.  Information for out-of-state and international patients.  Find out our office hours or directions to our office. 

We offer affordable appointment prices with or without insurance.  Low-cost Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil) are available to our patients.


Venous Leak Causes Problems with Obtaining and Maintaining Erections in Men

What is Venous Leak or Veno-Occlusive Insufficiency?

Erections are caused by increased blood inflow to the penis.  The decreased outflow of blood from the penis allows an erection to be maintained. The maintenance mechanism that prevents blood from leaving the penis is the ‘corporo-occlusive” mechanism within the penis that involves collagen fibers, smooth muscle, and other support structures.

Venous leak refers to the failure of the corpora-occlusive mechanism within the penis to keep blood from leaving the penile shaft. 

Corporo-venous occlusive erectile dysfunction or veno-occlusive dysfunction can be caused by degenerative changes of tunica, changes to collagen components as a result of aging, Peyronie’s disease, diabetes or penile fracture.  

Decreased smooth muscle content may also contribute to venous leakage. Decreased amounts of elastic fibers and increased collagen deposition are thought to be major contributors to ‘venous leak”.   Decreased smooth muscle can contribute to ED.  Trauma may also induce abnormal venous shunts that impair occlusive venous mechanisms in the penis.  This is also called ‘cavernosal’ ED because the problem originates in the mechanisms responsible for the maintenance of erection within the corpora cavernosa of the penis.

What are the Signs of Venous Leak Erectile Dysfunction?

A venous leak, or veno-occlusive insufficiency as it is more formally known, can occur as mild, moderate or severe problems contributing to erectile dysfunction in men.  When a venous leak is minor, it is often asymptomatic, as long as blood inflow is good, it can compensate for veno-occlusive insufficiency.

The most common symptoms of erectile dysfunction caused by a venous leak are erections that cannot be maintained, engorgement but no erection after taking medications such as Viagra or Cialis.  It is important to understand that men without venous leak but with arterial insufficiency can also experience similar symptoms.

How is Venous Leak Diagnosed?

A venous leak is suspected as a cause of erectile dysfunction in men who able to obtain erections but lose it very fast.  Veno-occlusive insufficiency is also suspected when medications such as Viagra or Cialis does not work well.

A definitive diagnosis of corporo-venous occlusive erectile dysfunction is made using penile Doppler ultrasound with an intra-cavernosal injection of prostaglandin or Trimix.  End-diastolic velocity, a parameter measured by duplex ultrasound, is typically greater than 5 mL/s in patients with a venous leak.  Normally, EDV (End-diastolic velocity) is less than 5. 

It is important to understand that severe anxiety can produce false results. Similarly, an inadequate dose of Trimix or prostaglandin can suggest veno-occlusive insufficiency when the problem may be related to arterial insufficiency or combined problem. Redosing with a higher dose of Trimix or SuperTrimix is usually advisable when the diagnosis is uncertain.

What are the Treatment Options for Fixing Venous Leak?

Veno-occlusive dysfunction is one of the most challenging problems to treat.  For some patients with a mild venous leak, medications such as Viagra or Cialis might work.  Using penile constrictive ring might allow men to maintain erections for a prolonged period of time.  Some men are successful in using vacuum erection devices or penile injections in combination with a penile constrictive ring.

For most men with moderate to severe erectile dysfunction caused by veno-occlusive insufficiency or combined erectile dysfunction caused by arterial and veno-occlusive insufficiency, penile implant offers the most effective treatment option. 

Inflatable penile prostheses such as AMS-700 and Coloplast Titan OTR penile implant enable men with a severe venous leak to resume sexual activity.  The penile implant offers excellent effectiveness for the treatment of moderate-severe venous leak and mixed vascular erectile dysfunction even when medications such as Viagra and Cialis do not work. 

Ineffective Treatment Options for Men with Venous Leak or Mixed Vascular Insufficiency

It is important for men to understand that certain treatments will not be beneficial if a venous leak or veno-occlusive insufficiency is the underlying cause of ED. Similarly, if there is a combined vascular insufficiency with poor blood delivery (arterial insufficiency) and failure of blood to remain in the penis (venous leak), the severity of erectile dysfunction tends to be more severe.  Many men come to us after trying multiple treatments for ED without success. Many men resort to expensive and ineffective treatments such as plasma and platelet injections for ED.

The following treatments are ineffective in men with a moderate-to-severe venous leak or mixed vascular insufficiency:

Medications such as Viagra and Cialis that are offered online by outlets such as GetRoman and others are typically ineffective for men with veno-occlusive erectile dysfunction. Trimix injections offered by Boston Medical, as well as at New York Urology Specialists, often result in semi-erection of 40-60% hardness but not adequate for intercourse.

Shockwave therapy for ED typically does not lead to a significant benefit in men with a moderate-to-severe venous leak.  Similarly, the platelet injections are of no benefit to men with veno-occlusive vascular insufficiency or venous leak as the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction.

Can Surgery Fix Venous Leak?

Surgical treatment has been tried to correct veno-occlusive insufficiency.  Currently, the surgeries are not recommended because long-term success beyond 1-2 years is poor and most men require additional treatment.

Where to Get Treatment for ED in NYC?

At New York Urology Specialists, we offer specialized treatment for ED for men. Same-day appointments are available.

Call/text today: 1-646-663-5211 or make an appointment online.  

We treat sexual and erection problems and offer comprehensive STD testing for infections.  We treat penile problems in men, including phimosis, balanitis, penile irritation, and penile redness. We perform a no-scalpel vasectomy, vasectomy reversal, cosmetic circumcision, circumcision revision, penile frenuloplasty. We offer confidential appointments.

Our prices are ED treatment prices are affordable with or without insurance.  Low-cost Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil) are available to our patients.  We offer free insurance verification.

Read Real Stories of Men who Underwent Treatment for ED at New York Urology Specialists.

We offer ED treatment to patients within driving distance to our offices as well as from other states and countries.  Our patients come from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut, and over 30 countries worldwide.

What do Penile Problems Look Like?

You can find pictures of penile problems including before and after treatment images in our image gallery.

What You Need to Know:

Why Choose New York Urology Specialists for Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction?

  • All treatment is performed by a board-certified urologist experienced in treating men with symptoms of ED, premature ejaculation, and other sexual problems using medical therapy, minimally invasive therapies, lasers, and surgery.
  • We are one of the few practices in the region to offer a full range of options for the treatment of sexual and erection problems in men.
  • We offer diagnostic testing in our office, which avoids hospital costs.
  • Extensive Experience: Thousands of men have been treated successfully using medical therapy, shockwave therapy for ED, penile injections with Trimix, and penile implant surgery.
  • Confidential and Understanding Care. We understand that most of our patients desire privacy.  We see patients with a variety of urological problems. Your reason for visiting us is entirely confidential.
  • We are one of the few practices in the region to offer a full range of options for the treatment of sexual and erection problems in men.
  • We are conveniently located within a 30-60 minute commute to men who are seeking ED treatment in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Westchester, Long Island, Bronx, and New Jersey.

Scheduling Appointments for ED Treatment at New York Urology Specialists


If you have any questions, to schedule a consultation, please contact us or call/text: 1-646-663-5211.

We have excellent reviews from patients and their partners.  Information for out-of-state and international patients.  Find out our office hours or directions to our office. 

We offer affordable prices with or without insurance.  Low-cost Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil) are available to our patients.

We offer weekday, weekend, and evening office hours.

Dr. Alex Shteynshlyuger is a board-certified urologist, who specializes in all aspects of care for sexual problems in men including ED, premature ejaculation, and other sexual concerns.  He has successfully treated hundreds of men with sexual problems including ED and poor libido.


Patients Reviews

Overall Rating:

5

 
Total Ratings

5

Total Reviews

68

Ratings

Ease of Appointment: Bedside Manner:
Promptness: Spends Time with Me:
Courteous Staff: Follows Up After Visit:
Accurate Diagnosis:

Urology by Alan on Jul 04, 2022Dr. Alex and all members of his staff are very attentive and professional. They are always willing to adjust to patient requests regarding scheduling and time. I’ve never had a negative experience when visiting the office and would highly recommend Dr. Alex and staff!

  •  

Circumcision and vasectomy by Hector Nieves on Feb 22, 2022Todo muy bien con el personal, la cirugia, el seguimiento, etc. Lo unico que podria decir un poquito negativo es el tiempo de espera despues de la hora de la cita fue bastante, pero con relacion a todo lo demas es excelente.

  •  

Review by Armando Santos on Dec 16, 2021Great experience

best urology doctor by Winston – via Healthgrades.com on Feb 14, 2021Dr Alex Shteynshlyuger is the best urology doctor there is. He is attentive, analytical, knowledgeable and skillful. Very confidential with a masterfully professional staff. I would not hesitate in recommending Dr Shteynshlyuger to the world because I am a satisfied patient of his.

solved my problem with ED by via HealthGrades.com on Jan 29, 2021Dr. Shteynshlyuger helped to solve my problem with ED

100% perfect circumcision by via HealthGrades.com on Jan 21, 2021Dr. Shteynshlyuger did what I would call an 100% perfect circumcision on me. I can’t even find my scar. He cut the precise right amount of skin. I now feel extremely happy, confident, and proud of how it looks. I am 100% satisfied with my results and I would recommend him to any guy seeking an adult circumcision. I healed in 5.5 weeks but his recommendation is 6 weeks to heal so that means zero “activity” for 6 weeks to avoid damaging the stitching. The surgical glue I pulled off at 5.5 weeks. It is important to not remove it before! The lower posterior of my shaft did not look good at first, especially w/ the surgical glue on it, but over weeks it looked better and better w/ the final results by 5.5-6 weeks being excellent When the doctor injected the anesthetic, it was painful since he must inject it deep ~6-8times. During the surgery my discomfort was maybe a 1/10, so tolerable. Make sure to buy lots of bandages/gauze before/after for daily change for 5-6 weeks

What went well

Appointment scheduling Office environment Staff friendliness Appointment wasn’t rushed Listened & answered questions Explained conditions well Trusted the provider’s decisions

What could be improved

Long wait times 

Very Pleased by A. Pereira via Vitals.com on Jan 21, 2021Very Pleased, I couldn’t have asked for more from Dr. S as well as everyone in the office, The procedure and after was a dream with Dr. S. If you are on the fence, I can tell you, that you will love your experience with Dr. S

THEY TREAT YOU LIKE FAMILY by Luis via Google.com on Jan 11, 2021THEY TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOU AND THEY TREAT YOU LIKE FAMILY AND LOOK OUT FOR YOU

treatment from New York Urology by Anthony via Healthgrades.com on Jan 07, 2021My problem with ED is gone with my treatment from New York Urology!

What went well

Appointment scheduling Office environment Staff friendliness Wait times Appointment wasn’t rushed Listened & answered questions Explained conditions well Trusted the provider’s decisions

What could be improved

 

recommend Dr. Shteynshlyuger by via HealthGrades.com on Jan 04, 2021Yes I would recommend Dr. Shteynshlyuger . Effective physician at all levels.

finally able to enjoy life again by Josh via Google.com on Dec 16, 2020Dr. Alex absolutely changed my life and restored my faith in doctors. When my condition first started I saw four different urologists over a period of about 6 months. All four either laughed me out of their office saying there’s nothing they could do to help, that my pain was normal, or prescribed me something that did not help or made everything worse. I prepared to live my life (22 years old now) with chronic pain that made participating in every day activities extremely difficult. Finally after getting the courage to start looking for new doctors again I found Dr. Alex Shteynshlyuger and decided to give his office a call. I proceeded to see him shortly after my call, and now a few visits and months later I am finally able to enjoy life again. Dr. Alex took the time to do the tests that other doctors did not even mention. He took different approaches, gave well explained answers to all of my questions, and made me feel like there are some doctors who really do care. On top of all of that he has some of the most helpful and kind staff I have come across. I cannot stress enough how thankful I am for Dr. Alex!

No pain at all by Elson via Google.com on Nov 25, 2020This was a very fast and easy process. No pain at all and the job was very well done. He stays on top of your progress and helps to heal faster. I will definitely recommend Dr Alex at all times!!!

Great place by Yannis via Google.com on Nov 09, 2020Very friendly staff, A great experience from the front desk to seeing the doctor. Dr.Shteynshlyuger is very professional and makes you comfortable when you’re in the room. He answers every question with detail. Great place..

I would highly recommend it to anyone by Javier – Via Google.com on Oct 11, 2020I saw the reviews about this place and was very hesitant to go but something was telling me to go with them and I don’t regret it at all, the doctor did a great job and helped me understand the process plus the staff was amazing I would highly recommend it to anyone! quick story after the procedure I was in soo much pain and called the office on a SUNDAY, the doctor gave me a call back within 15 minutes and prescribed a stronger medication, to me that meant a lot for the doctor to take time from his day on a Sunday to help me.

highly qualified diagnostician by Vladimir via Google.com on Sep 23, 2020I have been observed by Dr. Alex for many years and I must say that he is a highly qualified diagnostician, and also several times I have received qualified microsurgical assistance and very useful advice. The only reason I put 4 with a plus is a somewhat long wait for the reception.

successful procedure by Grant via Google.com on Aug 20, 2020To Dr. Shteynshlyuger and your assistants and aids, thank you guys for a successful procedure. I’d refer you to others for your compassionate, knowledgeable, attentive service and indepth follow up care.

I am very happy with this doctor. by Maria via Google.com on Aug 12, 2020I am very happy with this doctor. He is very patient and he understood all my problems. He also answered my questions and gave me some good advice.

very friendly staff by via HealthGrades.com on Apr 12, 2020excellent doctor and all very friendly staff

2 years free of any UTI by Lucretia via Vitals.com on Apr 09, 2020This urologist has helped me for my constant UTI’s He gave me a few tests, diagnosed the problem and now I’m 2 years free if any UTI. A kind, intelligent, caring doctor LucretiaLaMura

Doctor Shteynshlyuger provided me with the care I needed by Christopher via Google.com on Mar 11, 2020The staff is very professional. Doctor Shteynshlyuger provided me with the care I needed. The wait, visits, and instructions were brief. I followed his instructions and my issue was resolved. As a patient exercise patience. Follow the instructions and be honest about your condition and what you hope to accomplish be visiting. Thanks again Doctor.

Patient review by Jose A La Luz on Jan 24, 2020 

Buen doctor by Marcos perez on Jan 14, 2020Muy buen doctor. Y sobre todo el personal muy amable se preocupan por uno buen servicio

Thank you for your hlep by Ron on Dec 10, 2019Amazing doctor and staff. Thank you!

Shang Ring circumcision by via HealthGrades.com on Oct 29, 2019Overall, it was a good experience. Dr. Shteynshlyuger (Dr. Alex) was very nice, warm and helpful. He performed a Shang Ring circumcision for me and the procedure went well. I’m pleased with the results and there were no complications. If anyone is interested in the shang ring circumcision in the tristate area, then I’d recommend him. The whole procedure is $1850, which includes the initial consultation (provided that ther are no complications) and every follow up visit up to six months.

What went well

Appointment scheduling Office environment Staff friendliness Wait times Appointment wasn’t rushed Listened & answered questions Explained conditions well Trusted the provider’s decisions

What could be improved

 

Thank you doc !!! by via HealthGrades.com on Aug 14, 2019Great doctor, good bedside manner and always felt comfortable talking to him and the staff. Great location and affordable prices. Thank you doc !!!

What went well

Appointment scheduling Office environment Staff friendliness Appointment wasn’t rushed Listened & answered questions Explained conditions well Trusted the provider’s decisions 

Office very convenient location by via HealthGrades.com on Aug 13, 2019Office very convenient location Don’t have to wait for long Staff very friendly Dr shteynshyuer very experienced I had my serviced done in 3 visits now I feel good now Than you Dr. shteynhlyuger

positive experience by via HealthGrades.com on Aug 09, 2019Dr. Shteynshlyuger is professional, knowledgeable, and experienced. I had a positive experience with him.

Peronis Disease by Robert Clarke on Aug 04, 2019Dr Alex was both knowledgeable and concise with his diagnosis and advice which was well received. Dr was her knowledgeable in the subject and provided good advice.

Review by Jim on Jul 26, 2019The staff are very friendly and efficient. Appointment ease is excellent. Dr. S. is terrific diagnostician, answers your questions quickly tries to assess how you are doing and focus on the purpose(s) of our visit Treatment alternatives are discussed . The longer you are a patient, the better the experience is.

3P Removal by Karl Henry on Jul 24, 2019Went to get my penile papule remove. Got done same day, it was fast, great staff, and most importantly, pleased with the result.

Recommendation by JOHN on Jul 18, 2019Therefore I would like to recommend you to anyone who need your services.

Urology Visit by Oliver on Jul 18, 2019Staff were all very welcoming. Dr. Alex Shteynshlyuger was very knowledgeable and attentive during my time spent with him.

Outstanding by Allan B. on Jul 09, 2019Went in for a procedure with Dr. Alex and he was very calm and thorough about the the operation and the recovery. From the front desk to his assistants, everyone was very courteous, professional and polite. I highly recommend NY Urologist Specialist. They are outstanding!!!

Dr. Alex Shteynshlyuger MD
33 W 46th St 5TH FL, New York, NY

Get more reviews

58 reviews

 

People often mention
All
feel5

questions4

surgery4

results3

condition3

life3

Sort by

 

 

 

Kyle Harris

2 months ago
I’VE BEEN SEEING SEVERAL OTHER DOCTORS FOR THE LAST 12 YEARS AND ALL OF THEIR RESOLUTIONS TO MY AILMENT WAS TO GIVE ME MEDICATION. DR. SHTEYNSHLYUGER TOOK STEPS A – Z TO ADDRESS THE CAUSE OF THE AILMENT ON TOP OF GIVING GOOD ADVICE (DIET, LOSING WEIGHT) TO ASSIST. THE STAFF MAKE YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE ABOUT DISCUSSING YOUR AILMENT WHICH IN OTHER TIMES YOU WOULD BE EMBARRASSED TO DISCUSS TO A STRANGER. HE MAKES SURE THAT WHEN YOU WALK OUT OF THAT OFFICE, THAT YOUR CONFIDENT AND ON YOUR WAY TO A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE.
 

ED is Treatable in Nearly Every Man

Excellence-Urology_Care-banner2At New York Urology Specialists, our urologists are specially trained in the evaluation and treatment of erectile dysfunction.  We understand the challenges that ED creates for our patients, their relationships, and their self-esteem.  We help you find a treatment for erectile dysfunction that fits your needs, lifestyle, and your preferences.

Urologists are doctors specializing in the treatment of men with erectile dysfunction. By virtue of our experience and skill, we are able to offer an effective treatment option for nearly every man who desires an effective treatment for ED.  We offer medical and surgical treatment for erectile dysfunction.

We Treat Some of the Most Complex ED Problems Including:

Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Shteynshlyuger:

Call/text today: 1-646-663-5211 or make an appointment online

Dr. Alex Shteynshlyuger is a fellowship-trained board-certified urologist with expertise in the evaluation and treatment of sexual and erection problems in men using modern, effective, and proven treatment methods.  We offer inflatable penile implant, shockwave therapy for ED, and treatment for Peyronie’s disease.

He is highly recommended by top primary care physicians in the New York area. If you or someone you know has been experiencing urological symptoms, make an appointment to take advantage of Dr. Shteynshlyuger’s expert advice. Please feel free to contact us with any questions.


If you have any questions, to schedule a consultation, please contact us or call/text: 1-646-663-5211.

We have excellent reviews from patients and their partners.  Information for out-of-state and international patients.  Find out our office hours or directions to our office. 

We offer affordable appointment prices with or without insurance.  Low-cost Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil) are available to our patients.

We offer weekday, weekend, and evening office hours.

 

This post is also available in: Spanish Arabic Chinese (Simplified)