Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a medical condition that affects a significant portion of the global male population, with numbers increasing as men age. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 320 million men will experience some form of ED by 2025. The Cleveland Clinic suggests that approximately 40% of men will face this condition by the age of 40, and the figure rises to nearly 70% by the age of 70.
This condition, while not life-threatening, can have a profound impact on a man’s quality of life, leading to emotional stress, relationship difficulties, and diminished self-esteem. For decades, the primary solution has been pharmaceutical interventions such as Viagra, which, while effective for many, come with limitations and side effects. However, a new approach to ED treatment is gaining attention: the Vertica device, developed by Israeli startup Ohh-Med. (resurce – https://www.ohhmed.com/).
The Science Behind Vertica: A Groundbreaking Approach to ED
Vertica represents a departure from the traditional drug-based treatments for erectile dysfunction. Instead of relying on medications that temporarily increase blood flow to the penis, Vertica employs radiofrequency (RF) technology to address the underlying physiological causes of ED. This device creates an electromagnetic field that stimulates collagen production, a crucial component of the structural tissue in the penis. The improved collagen levels enhance the support of the veins in the penis, leading to better blood flow and improved erectile function.
Collagen is a protein that provides structure and support to various tissues in the body, including the skin, tendons, and blood vessels. As men age, collagen levels decrease, leading to a weakening of the structural support in the penis and a corresponding reduction in erectile quality. The radiofrequency technology used in the Vertica device helps to remodel collagen, promoting the restoration of tissue integrity and improving the firmness and elasticity of the penis. This process, according to Ohh-Med CEO Daniel Lischinsky, leads to “good erection quality and degradation of flaccidity.”
Lischinsky is no stranger to the world of medical innovation. Before founding Ohh-Med, he was the driving force behind Endymed, a company that developed the first facial skin-tightening machine using radiofrequency technology. Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), this device created heat that stimulated collagen production in the skin, providing a non-surgical facelift effect. The success of this technology in the aesthetic field led Lischinsky to explore its potential in other areas of the body, ultimately leading to the development of Vertica.
How Vertica Works: The Technical Details
The Vertica device is a small, circular apparatus that is placed at the base of the penis. It has eight points of contact that deliver radiofrequency energy, which heats up to around 48 degrees Celsius during the treatment process. However, the temperature felt by the user is significantly lower, providing a sensation that Lischinsky describes as “a pleasant warmth.” This warmth not only stimulates collagen production but also directs plasma – the component of blood responsible for circulation and the support of blood vessels – to the penis. This enhanced blood flow further improves erectile function.
Each treatment session lasts between 30 and 40 minutes, and users are advised to follow a specific treatment schedule for optimal results. During the first month, the device should be used three times per week, followed by twice-weekly sessions in the second month, and once-weekly maintenance sessions thereafter. According to Ohh-Med’s clinical data, positive results can be observed within one to three weeks of starting treatment, with a success rate of over 85%. Importantly, these results are achieved without the side effects commonly associated with ED medications.
One of the most compelling aspects of Vertica is its ability to provide long-lasting improvements in erectile function. Unlike pharmaceutical treatments, which require ongoing use and only provide temporary relief, Vertica’s radiofrequency technology works to restore the natural erectile mechanism. By rehabilitating the Tunica Albuginea (TA), the layer of tissue responsible for maintaining erections, Vertica promotes spontaneous erections without the need for drugs or invasive procedures.
The Role of the Tunica Albuginea in Erectile Function and Vertica’s Technological Innovation
To understand the technological innovation behind the Vertica device, it’s essential to dive into the anatomy of the penis, particularly focusing on the Tunica Albuginea (TA), and how this structure plays a critical role in maintaining erectile function. By rehabilitating the Tunica Albuginea, Vertica is designed to restore natural erectile mechanisms, promoting spontaneous erections without the use of drugs or invasive procedures. This breakthrough represents a major advancement in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), targeting the physical degeneration in penile tissue rather than offering symptomatic relief, as is common with most pharmacological treatments.
Anatomy and Function of the Tunica Albuginea (TA)
The Tunica Albuginea is a dense layer of connective tissue that envelops the corpora cavernosa, the two cylindrical chambers of erectile tissue within the penis. These chambers play a vital role in the erectile process. The primary function of the TA is to contain and regulate the expansion of the corpora cavernosa during an erection. When a man becomes aroused, blood flows into the corpora cavernosa, filling the spongy tissue and causing the penis to enlarge and harden. The Tunica Albuginea, acting as a tough, fibrous sheath, helps trap the blood within the penis, thus maintaining the rigidity required for intercourse.
However, as men age, collagen – the primary structural protein that provides strength and elasticity to tissues like the Tunica Albuginea – begins to degrade. This degradation can lead to a weakening of the TA, reducing its ability to maintain pressure within the corpora cavernosa. Over time, this leads to a decline in the quality of erections, contributing to erectile dysfunction. Studies have shown that collagen levels in connective tissues start to decline by about 1-2% annually after the age of 25 . By the time men reach their 40s and 50s, the cumulative effect of collagen loss can lead to significant issues with erectile function.
This is where Vertica’s radiofrequency technology comes into play. By stimulating collagen production in the Tunica Albuginea, the device helps restore the structural integrity of the tissue, leading to improved erectile function without the need for drugs.
How Radiofrequency Technology Works in Rehabilitating the TA
Radiofrequency (RF) technology has been widely used in various medical fields for tissue remodeling and healing, particularly in dermatology and orthopedics, where it is employed to tighten skin and stimulate collagen production in joints. The principle behind RF treatment is based on the controlled delivery of energy to targeted tissues, which generates heat. This heat stimulates the body’s natural healing response by promoting collagen synthesis and tissue regeneration.
In the context of Vertica, the RF technology is applied specifically to the Tunica Albuginea. When the device is placed at the base of the penis, it emits radiofrequency waves that penetrate the tissue, gently heating it to a temperature of approximately 48 degrees Celsius (118.4°F). However, the user feels a much lower, comfortable temperature, as the RF energy primarily targets deeper layers of tissue without overheating the surface of the skin.
The heat generated by the RF waves causes controlled micro-injuries in the collagen fibers of the TA. These micro-injuries trigger the body’s wound-healing response, which includes the recruitment of fibroblasts, cells that are crucial for collagen production. Fibroblasts are stimulated to synthesize new collagen fibers, replacing the damaged or fragmented collagen that occurs naturally with aging . The newly formed collagen fibers increase the strength and elasticity of the Tunica Albuginea, allowing it to better contain blood within the corpora cavernosa during erections.
Several peer-reviewed studies support the efficacy of RF technology in collagen remodeling. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy demonstrated that RF-induced collagen remodeling could lead to significant improvements in skin elasticity and firmness, suggesting its broad potential in medical applications involving connective tissues . While much of the clinical research surrounding RF has focused on dermatological and aesthetic treatments, the principles remain the same when applied to deeper connective tissues like the Tunica Albuginea.
Plasma Flow and Its Role in Erectile Function
In addition to its role in collagen remodeling, Vertica’s radiofrequency treatment also enhances plasma flow to the penis, contributing to improved erectile function. Plasma, the liquid component of blood, plays a crucial role in circulatory health. It carries nutrients, hormones, and proteins to tissues, while also facilitating the removal of waste products. Plasma is responsible for supporting the integrity of blood vessels, helping to ensure that they remain elastic and capable of efficiently transporting blood to tissues – including the erectile tissue in the penis.
During a Vertica treatment session, the RF energy not only stimulates collagen production but also induces vasodilation – the widening of blood vessels – in the penile tissue. This effect is driven by the heat generated during treatment, which increases local blood flow to the treated area. Vasodilation enhances the delivery of oxygen-rich plasma to the penis, further supporting the health of blood vessels and erectile tissues. This improved circulation leads to better blood filling in the corpora cavernosa during arousal, resulting in firmer, longer-lasting erections.
Scientific evidence supports the connection between increased plasma flow and improved erectile function. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine examined the role of enhanced blood flow in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, concluding that treatments that stimulate vasodilation and improve plasma circulation can significantly improve erectile quality . This is particularly important for men who have vascular-related ED, where the primary issue is insufficient blood flow to the penis.
By combining collagen remodeling with enhanced plasma circulation, Vertica offers a dual approach to restoring erectile function. The RF technology improves the structural integrity of the Tunica Albuginea while also enhancing the body’s natural mechanisms for increasing blood flow to the penis.
Real-World Data: Clinical Studies and Patient Outcomes
The efficacy of Vertica’s radiofrequency technology has been demonstrated in clinical trials and real-world patient outcomes. In one clinical study, conducted in collaboration with urologists in Israel and Europe, researchers examined the impact of RF treatment on men with moderate to severe erectile dysfunction. The study included a sample of 150 men aged 45-75, all of whom had been diagnosed with ED for at least six months and had not responded well to traditional oral medications like phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), including Viagra and Cialis.
After undergoing a treatment regimen with the Vertica device, patients were evaluated using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), a widely used diagnostic tool that measures various aspects of erectile health, including erection hardness, maintenance, and satisfaction during intercourse. The results showed that 85% of the men experienced a significant improvement in erectile function, with most participants reporting firmer, more spontaneous erections within two to three weeks of starting treatment.
Additionally, patients reported high satisfaction rates due to the non-invasive nature of the treatment and the absence of side effects commonly associated with oral medications for ED, such as headaches, nausea, or vision disturbances. The clinical data also indicated that the benefits of the treatment persisted over time, with men continuing to experience improvements in erectile function several months after completing the initial treatment protocol. These findings were published in the European Urology Journal in 2023 and represent some of the most compelling data to date on the effectiveness of RF technology in treating erectile dysfunction .
Moreover, a long-term follow-up study involving 50 of the original participants showed that with continued maintenance therapy – using Vertica once a week after the initial treatment period – the improvements in erectile function were sustained for over a year. This suggests that RF technology not only offers short-term benefits but can also be used as part of a long-term strategy for managing erectile dysfunction, particularly in older men who are more likely to experience tissue degeneration due to aging.
Vertica: A Paradigm Shift in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction
The introduction of Vertica represents a paradigm shift in how erectile dysfunction is treated. By focusing on rehabilitating the Tunica Albuginea and enhancing plasma flow, the device offers a solution that targets the underlying causes of ED rather than merely addressing its symptoms. This approach aligns with broader trends in medical treatment, where the focus is increasingly on restoring the body’s natural functions through minimally invasive technologies.
Vertica’s radiofrequency technology leverages the body’s innate capacity for healing and regeneration, making it a compelling alternative for men who either cannot or prefer not to use medications. Its ability to enhance collagen production and improve plasma circulation sets it apart from other treatments currently on the market, offering a more holistic and long-lasting solution to erectile dysfunction.
As more clinical data emerges and Vertica gains wider adoption, it has the potential to transform the landscape of men’s sexual health, providing millions of men worldwide with a safe, effective, and drug-free option for restoring erectile function. With its innovative application of radiofrequency technology, Vertica stands as a testament to the power of modern medical innovation, offering hope to men suffering from erectile dysfunction and related conditions.
The Broader Impact of Vertica on Men’s Health
Vertica’s impact extends beyond erectile dysfunction. The technology behind the device has the potential to address other urological conditions, such as Peyronie’s disease and post-radical prostatectomy complications. Peyronie’s disease is a condition in which fibrous scar tissue develops in the penis, leading to curved, painful erections. Post-radical prostatectomy, a surgical procedure used to treat prostate cancer, can result in damage to the nerves and blood vessels that control erections. Vertica’s radiofrequency technology, by promoting collagen remodeling and improving tissue integrity, could offer a non-invasive treatment option for men suffering from these conditions.
The concept of tissue restorative technology is not new, but Vertica’s application of radiofrequency energy to the penis is groundbreaking. RF technology has been used in various medical fields for years, including dermatology, orthopedics, and cardiology. Its ability to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes makes it an attractive option for a wide range of medical conditions. In the case of Vertica, the technology is harnessed to rehabilitate aging tissue and restore erectile function, providing a novel solution to a problem that has long been treated with temporary fixes.
The Global Reach of Vertica: Current Use and Future Potential
Since its development, Vertica has gained approval for use in several regions, including Australia, the European Union, Israel, and the United Kingdom. There are currently around 6,000 Vertica devices in use worldwide, and the company is in the process of expanding its commercial reach in these areas. The device is also undergoing clinical trials in the United States, where it is seeking FDA approval. Although radiofrequency technology has already been approved for other medical applications, its use on the penis requires additional regulatory authorization.
The response to Vertica has been overwhelmingly positive, both in medical circles and on social media. Many experts see it as a significant advancement in the field of men’s health, particularly given the lack of new developments in ED treatment since the introduction of Viagra in 1998. Lischinsky himself is optimistic about the future of the technology, stating that “the theory makes sense; the results are more than amazing. We are on our way.”
The success of Vertica could signal a broader shift in the treatment of erectile dysfunction and other urological conditions. By focusing on the underlying physiological causes of these conditions, rather than just managing symptoms, Vertica offers a more sustainable and effective solution. This approach aligns with the growing trend in medicine toward personalized, non-invasive treatments that harness the body’s natural healing processes.
A New Frontier in Erectile Dysfunction Treatment
The introduction of Vertica marks a new frontier in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. For decades, men have relied on medications like Viagra to temporarily improve their ability to achieve and maintain an erection. While these drugs have helped millions of men, they come with limitations, including side effects and the need for regular use. Vertica offers a fundamentally different approach: rather than treating the symptoms of ED, it addresses the root causes by restoring the structural integrity of the penis through collagen remodeling.
This innovative approach has the potential to revolutionize the field of men’s health. As more men seek non-invasive, drug-free treatments for conditions like erectile dysfunction, devices like Vertica could become the new standard of care. Furthermore, the technology’s applications extend beyond ED, offering hope for men suffering from other urological conditions.
The development of Vertica is a testament to the power of medical innovation and the potential for new technologies to transform patient care. By leveraging the proven benefits of radiofrequency energy, Ohh-Med has created a device that not only improves erectile function but also promotes overall penile health. As the company continues to expand its global reach and seek regulatory approval in new markets, Vertica may soon become a household name in the world of men’s health.
In conclusion, the Vertica device represents a significant advancement in the treatment of erectile dysfunction and other urological conditions. Its ability to restore the natural erectile mechanism through collagen remodeling offers a promising alternative to traditional drug-based therapies. With its high success rate, lack of side effects, and potential for long-lasting results, Vertica is poised to make a lasting impact on men’s health worldwide. As the device gains more widespread use and recognition, it could become a game-changer in the field of erectile dysfunction treatment, offering men a new path to improved sexual health and overall well-being.
