Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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What this page is about
This page explains a treatment called Low Intensity Focused Shockwave Treatment. It is for men who have erectile dysfunction (ED).
This means having problems getting or keeping an erection. The treatment is done in the Urology Outpatients department at Heatherwood Hospital.
What is this treatment?
- The treatment uses gentle sound waves.
- These sound waves go into the penis.
- They help the body make new blood vessels.
- This can help blood flow and may make erections better.
- The treatment does not involve surgery or needles.
What other treatments are there?
- Some people may use: Healthy lifestyle changes, like stopping smoking or losing weight.
- Tablets (for example sildenafil or tadalafil).
- A vacuum pump.
- Injections into the penis.
- Implants (a small device put inside the penis during an operation).
- Your doctor or nurse will talk to you about the best option for you
What are the benefits?
The treatment is not painful for most people. It is not surgery. You will have 6 short appointments (20–30 minutes each). It may help you have better erections.
What are the risks?
Most people have no major problems. Some people may have:
- Mild pain or discomfort during treatment.
- Redness or swelling of the skin.
- Mild bruising.
- Short term numbness of the skin.
- Serious problems are very rare.
Some people may not respond to the treatment
Who should NOT have this treatment?
You cannot have this treatment if you have:
- A pacemaker.
- A tumour in the penis, prostate, testicles, or treatment area.
- A skin wound in the treatment area.
- An infection in the treatment area.
What happens on the day?
- You can eat a light meal and drink water beforehand.
- You will be asked to lie on a couch.
- You will be given earplugs, because the machine makes a loud clicking noise.
- A gel will be put on the area being treated.
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The machine touches the skin on the penis. It sends gentle sound waves to 5 areas on the penis.
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Most people cope well, but you can speak up if it is uncomfortable.
After the treatment
The treatment takes 15–20 minutes and you can go home straight after. You can do normal activities, but avoid hard exercise for 48 hours. Once your treatment is finished, you will have follow‑up appointments at 3 months and 12 months.
Side effects
Most people have either mild or no side effects:
Mild side effects:
- Mild pain during treatment.
- Red skin.
- Mild bruising.
- Sore skin.
Very rarely, someone may have unusual swelling or pain.
Go to A&E immediately if:
- You have heavy swelling.
- You have strong pain.
- You cannot pass urine.
Need help or have questions?
You can call the Urology Team at Heatherwood Hospital: 0300 614 4041 (Mon-Fri 08.00-17.00)
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Urology service.
About this information
Service:
Urology
Reference:
Z/011
Approval date:
17 July 2026
Review date:
1 July 2029
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.