What does “venous leak” mean?
An erection depends on increased blood flow into the penis and adequate restriction of blood outflow. The term venous leak, also called veno-occlusive dysfunction, describes a problem maintaining sufficient rigidity. It is not always caused by a single defective vein.
Possible symptoms
Difficulty maintaining an erection, reduced firmness, or erections that subside sooner than expected. These symptoms can occur for many reasons and do not establish a diagnosis.
Other possible contributors
Medication effects, hormonal factors, cardiovascular disease, psychological factors, nerve conditions, and other causes may contribute to erectile dysfunction.
Why a careful evaluation matters
Symptoms alone cannot distinguish veno-occlusive dysfunction from other causes of ED. A qualified clinician reviews history, medications, risk factors, examination findings, and appropriate testing before recommending a plan.
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