Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is a common issue for many men, particularly over the age of 40.
Although ED is something that may be more common amongst older men, underlying issues could be the cause, such as stress, anxiety, depression and low mood, diabetes and drinking too much alcohol.
For men living with this condition, it is important to establish the cause. To determine this, doctors may ask some men to use a device known as a RigiScan or Nocturnal Erection Test. These tests can conclude whether the impotence is ‘psychogenic’ (caused by a mental issue) or ‘organic’ (a health condition with a measurable and observable disease process). The RigiScan test is also useful for healthcare professionals to decipher the best treatment options for ED.
The RigiScan is a battery-powered device that is strapped around the thigh, equipped with two loops. One loop goes around the base of the penis and the other at the glans (or tip) of the penis and it measures the strength of an erection. The device is simple to use, non-invasive and doesn’t cause any pain.
John Connell, Chief Scientific Officer at MAC Clinical Research, said: “Rigiscan assessments have become the cornerstone of research into Erectile Dysfunction for over forty years. They provide a safe, reliable, and objective way of recording whether a pharmaceutical treatment is having a beneficial effect on erectile response. The Rigiscan has proved a popular choice of device for many studies because it is quick and easy to self-apply and is comfortable to wear with no significant discomfort caused.”
If you are aged 18-59 and you are experiencing erectile dysfunction but are otherwise healthy, you may be eligible to take part in our latest clinical trial, investigating a new treatment for erectile dysfunction. This novel treatment acts both centrally (on the brain) and in the periphery (muscles and veins). It is believed this dual approach will both help with the initiation of an erection (unlike current options such as Viagra) as well as maintaining it for a longer period of time.
Eligible participants will receive up to £680 for their time and commitment to this research. If you’d like to find out more or register your interest to be involved in the trial, you can sign up via our website here. Some patients may be asked to provide either a sperm sample or use a RigiScan device as part of the trial.
