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Vacuum erectile devices

Vacuum erectile devices

Overview

A vacuum erectile device (VED) is used to help men with erectile dysfunction get and maintain an erection. A VED consists of a plastic tube, a pump, and a constriction band, which fits on the end of the tube. To use the device, place the tube over the entire penis. Use the pump to draw air out of the tube. This will cause blood to fill the penis, causing an erection. Slide the band off the end of the tube and onto the base of the penis to maintain the erection. The band should remain in place for no more than 30 minutes.

Review Date 1/17/2023

Updated by: Kelly L. Stratton, MD, FACS, Associate Professor, Department of Urology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team. Editorial update 09/20/2023.