TECHNOLOGY MATTERS

Kass Precision Medicine uses two kinds of shockwave devices - “radial” and “focused”, both approved by the FDA for musculoskeletal issues. Over 40 studies are heralding the efficacy of shockwave therapy for ED, the majority of which use a focused shockwave device. We employ radial and focused devices - both manufactured by Storz Medical - which leverage over 75 years of medical research and development. These are both “classified” medical devices - which can only be purchased and overseen by a medical professional.

Whereas a focused device is technically a stronger device that penetrates deeper into the tissue, the radial device reaches shallower tissue. The focused device casts a shockwave that is more like a laser beam - compared to a radial device that produces a shallower and wider beam - imagine a flashlight in a dark hallway. Both devices have literature that supports their use to treat ED. However, the focused shockwave device, with the support of the bulk of the literature, creates a deeper and more robust response in the tissue - making it more effective at treating moderate to severe cases of ED. It is less common to find a clinic that offers focused shockwave therapy - likely because these devices are more expensive and require higher-level medical providers to operate them (i.e. a doctor or registered nurse). Because we are dedicated to providing the most effective and evidence-based solutions, Kass Precision Medicine chooses to offer both focused and radial shockwave treatment. 

A medical device’s true ability to address the underlying causes of erectile dysfunction lies in its energy output capacity and application. A certain amount of energy is necessary to cause a biological response in the tissue of the penis, and more specifically the corpus cavernosum. There is a minimum amount of energy that is needed to encourage angiogenesis, break up scar tissue, cause neovascularization, create a stem cell response, and stimulate nitric oxide production. Medical devices with negligible capacities, like many of the devices on the market that mimic radial shockwave (that generate less than .22 mj/mm2) are simply not able to deliver adequate energy to address the root causes of ED. Focused shockwave devices are more powerful devices and offer deeper penetration - generating enough energy to produce changes in the tissue is not an issue for a focused device. 

Since shockwave therapy became popular in the U.S., several companies have developed sub-par devices, purported to treat ED. Even GAINSWave providers are not required to use any particular type of machine. Many devices are even sold directly to consumers - some can even be found on Amazon! Consumers are being inundated with murky information about these home shockwave devices. Additionally, pop-up clinics or “overnight ED specialists” are offering their versions of “shockwave” therapy. We recommend that the buyer beware - evidence and experience matter.  The effectiveness of many of these devices is not proven and consumers should not expect significant or lasting results.

You can read more about this on our blog: Treating ED with Shockwave, or GAINSWave, Therapy - Technology Matters.