Director:
Andrew McCullough, M.D.

The FDA approval of sildenafil (commonly known as Viagra) as the first oral therapy for erectile dysfunction (ED) revolutionized the field of sexual medicine. The maelstrom of publicity surrounding sildenafil has increased awareness in sexual medicine in the medical and public sector. The negative impact of erectile dysfunction on a man's quality of life and his intimacy with his partner can be devastating. Erectile dysfunction is frequently associated with underlying disease or progression of existing medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension or high cholesterol levels. The penis happens to be a sensitive barometer of the health of the circulatory system. The mere presence of erectile dysfunction increases the likelihood of a heart attack by 400%. It is estimated that in the next decade, there will be over 15 new treatments available for erectile dysfunction.

Though most urologists rarely perform diagnostic testing in ED, at NYU we try to uncover the underlying pathophysiologic processes that cause the problem, such as hardening of the arteries, neurological, muscular, and psychological or any combination. State-of-the-art penile duplex ultrasound, radiographic and computer assisted penile tumescence scanning technologies are all available on-site, in the office.

There is no single intervention that suits all patients. Dr. McCullough strives to match the best therapeutic modality to the patient, whether it is psychotherapy, an oral agent, intraurethral or topical medication, injection therapy, penile implant surgery or even penile microsurgical revascularization. In addition, "cutting edge" pharmaceutical trials are available to qualified patients for new and innovative agents under investigation by the major pharmaceutical firms.

In addition to erectile dysfunction, Dr. McCullough's office was the only site in New York chosen to conduct female Viagra trials. He continues to be actively involved in female sexual dysfunction, working closely with a clinical psychologist and sex therapist.