Efficacy of RestoreX after prostatectomy: open-label phase of a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Objective: To report open-label phase data from a recent randomized controlled trial (RCT), after previous data from that study showed improved penile length and erectile function among post-prostatectomy men treated with Restorex penile traction therapy (RxPTT).

Materials and methods: An RCT (NCT05244486) was performed to evaluate RxPTT vs no treatment (Tx) for 5 months, which was followed by a 3-month open-label phase. Men were stratified based on as-treated data: Group 1 = No Tx; Group 2 = No Tx → Tx; Group 3 = Tx → No Tx; Group 4 = Tx. Assessments included stretched penile length and standardized (International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF]) and non-standardized questionnaires.

Results: A total of 82 men were enrolled (mean age 58.6 years) with 9-month data available in 45 of the men. Baseline characteristics were similar among the cohorts. Comparing Group 1 and Group 4 (respectively), notable differences included: IIEF Erectile Function domain (IIEF-EF) score (-8 vs -0.5; P = 0.16), penile length (-0.1 vs +1.7 cm; P < 0.01), intracavernosal injection use (86% vs 14%; P < 0.01), Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP) Question 2 (50% vs 100%; P < 0.01), SEP Question 3 (33% vs 100%; P < 0.01). Men who crossed over to Tx (Group 2) failed to achieve equivalent improvements in length (+0.5 cm) or sexual function (IIEF-EF score -6) compared to men treated early (Groups 3 and 4). Those who crossed over to no treatment after initial treatment (Group 3) experienced preserved length (+1.8 cm), and erectile function (IIEF-EF score +0) despite therapy discontinuation.

Conclusions: Use of RxPTT beginning 1 month post-prostatectomy results in improved penile length and erectile function, with benefits maintained after discontinuing therapy. If confirmed, these results represent the first postoperative therapy shown in a RCT to improve erectile function post-prostatectomy. External validation is warranted.

Keywords: erectile dysfunction; mechanical device; penile traction; prostatectomy; rehabilitation.