P-Shot (PRP) for ED: Edmonton & Calgary Guide

P-Shot (Priapus Shot): Regenerative Medicine for Erectile Dysfunction

Regenerative medicine represents one of the most promising frontiers in erectile dysfunction treatment. Among regenerative approaches, the P-Shot — formally known as the Priapus Shot — has gained significant attention for its use of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to stimulate tissue repair, neovascularization, and functional improvement in the penis.

At ReGenesis clinics in Edmonton and Calgary, the P-Shot is offered as part of our comprehensive treatment toolkit — used both as a standalone therapy for mild-to-moderate ED and as a complement to other treatments for enhanced outcomes.

> "Regenerative medicine isn't science fiction — it's current clinical practice. PRP has been used in orthopedics, wound healing, and dermatology for decades. Applying it to erectile dysfunction is a logical extension of the same principles: concentrate the body's own healing factors and deliver them where they're needed." > — Dr. Lloyd Tapper, PhD, NP — Founder, ReGenesis

What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?

PRP is a concentration of platelets derived from the patient's own blood. Platelets contain granules loaded with growth factors — signaling proteins that orchestrate tissue repair processes:

• Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF): Stimulates cell proliferation and angiogenesis
• Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF): Promotes new blood vessel formation
• Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β): Regulates tissue remodeling and collagen synthesis
• Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF): Stimulates cell growth and differentiation
• Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1): Supports tissue growth and repair
• Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF): Stimulates endothelial cell proliferation and smooth muscle regeneration

By concentrating platelets to 3–8 times their normal blood concentration, PRP delivers a supraphysiological dose of growth factors to the target tissue — in this case, the corpus cavernosum of the penis.

The Science Behind PRP for ED

Mechanism of Action

When injected into the corpus cavernosum, PRP initiates several biological processes relevant to erectile function recovery:

1. Angiogenesis: Growth factors stimulate the formation of new capillaries and arterioles, improving blood supply to the penile tissue. This is particularly relevant for vasculogenic ED, where reduced blood flow is the primary pathology.

1. Smooth muscle regeneration: The corpus cavernosum is composed predominantly of smooth muscle. ED is associated with progressive smooth muscle loss and replacement with fibrotic tissue. PRP growth factors promote smooth muscle cell proliferation and reduce fibrosis (Ding et al., 2016, *Andrologia*).

1. Nerve trophic effects: Growth factors including NGF (nerve growth factor) and BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) present in PRP may support nerve repair — relevant for neurogenic ED following prostatectomy or diabetic neuropathy.

1. Endothelial repair: PRP growth factors recruit and activate endothelial progenitor cells, supporting repair of the damaged endothelial lining that is central to ED pathophysiology.

Clinical Evidence

The evidence base for PRP in ED is growing, with several published studies demonstrating benefit:

Epifanova et al. (2020, Sexual Medicine Reviews) A systematic review of PRP for ED identified multiple studies showing statistically significant improvements in IIEF (International Index of Erectile Function) scores. The authors concluded that PRP represents a "promising therapeutic option" for ED, while noting the need for larger randomized controlled trials.

Ruffo et al. (2020, Translational Andrology and Urology) A prospective study of 60 men with vasculogenic ED treated with PRP reported significant improvement in IIEF-EF domain scores at 1, 3, and 6 months post-treatment. Peak improvement occurred at 3 months.

Scott et al. (2019, Journal of Sexual Medicine) A pilot study combining PRP with low-intensity shockwave therapy (LiSWT) showed synergistic improvement in erectile function scores — greater than either treatment alone — suggesting that combination regenerative approaches may optimize outcomes.

> "The evidence for PRP in ED is promising and growing. We're not claiming it's a miracle cure — we're saying it's a clinically legitimate regenerative treatment that offers meaningful improvement for the right patients, especially when combined with other therapies." > — Dr. Lloyd Tapper, PhD, NP

The P-Shot Procedure at ReGenesis

Pre-Procedure

• Medical history review and confirmation of suitability
• Baseline IIEF score documentation
• Informed consent discussion covering expected outcomes, timelines, and limitations

Step 1: Blood Draw A small volume of blood (typically 30–60 mL) is drawn from the patient's arm — similar to a routine blood test.

Step 2: PRP Preparation The blood sample is processed in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelet-rich fraction. This process takes approximately 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Topical Anesthesia A numbing cream (lidocaine-based) is applied to the penis for 15–20 minutes to minimize discomfort during injection.

Step 4: PRP Injection Using a fine-gauge needle, the concentrated PRP is injected into specific areas of the corpus cavernosum and, in some protocols, the glans penis. The injection itself takes approximately 5–10 minutes.

Step 5: Post-Procedure - Most men return to normal activities immediately - Sexual activity can typically resume within 24–48 hours - Mild swelling or bruising may occur and resolves within a few days

Total Appointment Time: 45–60 minutes

Expected Results and Timeline

PRP works through biological regeneration — not pharmacological action — so results develop gradually:

• 2–4 weeks: Initial improvement in sensation and early morning erections reported by some men
• 4–8 weeks: Progressive improvement in erectile firmness and duration
• 8–12 weeks: Peak improvement, with continued gains possible
• 12–18 months: Duration of benefit before repeat treatment may be considered

Who Responds Best?

Based on clinical experience and published data, the best P-Shot candidates include:

• Men with mild-to-moderate vasculogenic ED — enough residual vascular capacity to respond to enhanced blood flow
• Men with Peyronie's disease — PRP may reduce plaque-associated fibrosis and improve curvature
• Men seeking to enhance PDE5 inhibitor response — PRP can improve the vascular substrate that medications act upon
• Men with reduced penile sensitivity — growth factors may support sensory nerve recovery
• Men who prefer non-pharmaceutical approaches or want to reduce medication dependence

Who May Not Respond

• Men with severe atherosclerotic vascular disease — insufficient residual vasculature for regeneration
• Men with complete neurogenic ED — nerve damage beyond regenerative capacity
• Men expecting immediate results — PRP requires weeks to months for biological effect

P-Shot as Part of a Combination Strategy

At ReGenesis, the P-Shot is often most effective when combined with complementary treatments:

Safety Profile

The P-Shot has an excellent safety profile, primarily because PRP is autologous — derived from the patient's own blood, eliminating risks of allergic reaction or immune rejection.

Reported side effects (all temporary): - Mild pain or discomfort at injection site (resolves within hours) - Minor bruising or swelling (resolves within days) - Temporary numbness from topical anesthesia

Serious complications: None reported in the published literature for penile PRP injection.

Cost and Accessibility

The P-Shot is available at both our Edmonton (Windermere Plaza) and Calgary (Silk Touch) locations. As a regenerative treatment, it is not covered by most private insurance plans. Detailed pricing is provided during the consultation, and receipts are issued for potential medical expense claims.

References

1. Epifanova MV, et al. Platelet-rich plasma therapy for male sexual dysfunction: myth or reality? *Sexual Medicine Reviews*. 2020;8(1):106-113.
2. Ruffo A, et al. Effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma for the treatment of erectile dysfunction: a systematic review. *Translational Andrology and Urology*. 2020;9(Suppl 1):S56-S63.
3. Scott S, et al. Platelet-rich plasma and erectile dysfunction: a pilot study. *Journal of Sexual Medicine*. 2019;16(S2):S44-S45.
4. Ding XG, et al. Effect of platelet-rich plasma on the regeneration of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells. *Andrologia*. 2016;48(1):39-44.
5. Matz EL, et al. Stem cell and gene-based therapy for erectile dysfunction. *Translational Andrology and Urology*. 2019;8(Suppl 1):S14-S19.

Schedule Your Assessment

Confidential assessments available. Same-week appointments for new patients.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Book a confidential assessment with a ReGenesis clinician.

Call 587.635.3414