When is penile prosthesis implantation recommended?

Penile prosthesis implantation is a surgical procedure that involves inserting a device into the penis to help men achieve and maintain an erection. It is recommended for men who have erectile dysfunction (ED) that is not responsive to other treatments, such as medication or therapy.

Here are some of the conditions that may warrant penile prosthesis implantation:

• Erectile dysfunction that is not responsive to other treatments
• Peyronie’s disease, a condition that causes scar tissue to form in the penis, making it difficult to get an erection
• Penile trauma, such as a fracture or injury
• Priapism, a prolonged erection that is not caused by sexual stimulation
• Penile cancer

The decision to undergo penile prosthesis implantation is a personal one that should be made after careful consideration of the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Here are some of the risks associated with penile prosthesis implantation:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Pain
• Erection that is too firm or too soft
• Need for additional surgery

The risks of penile prosthesis implantation are generally low, but it is important to discuss them with your doctor before making a decision.

If you are considering penile prosthesis implantation, talk to your doctor about the best option for you. There are two main types of penile prostheses:

• Inflatable prostheses: These prostheses have two cylinders that are inserted into the penis. The cylinders can be inflated with saline solution to create an erection.
• Mechanical prostheses: These prostheses have a rod that is inserted into the penis. The rod can be bent to create an erection.

Penile prosthesis implantation is typically recommended for men who have erectile dysfunction (ED) when other conservative treatments have failed or are not suitable. Here are some common scenarios in which penile prosthesis implantation may be recommended:

1. Ineffectiveness of Medications: When medications such as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors (e.g., Viagra, Cialis) or other oral ED drugs do not provide satisfactory results or are not tolerated due to side effects, a penile prosthesis may be considered.
2. Medical Contraindications: Some men may have medical conditions or take medications that prevent them from using oral ED medications or other therapies. In such cases, a penile prosthesis may be a suitable alternative.
3. Severe Erectile Dysfunction: Men with severe ED that significantly impairs their ability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse may benefit from a penile prosthesis.
4. Psychological or Emotional Factors: In cases where psychological or emotional factors contribute to ED, and counseling or therapy does not improve the condition, a penile prosthesis can provide a physical solution, potentially alleviating the psychological burden.
5. Anatomical Issues: Certain anatomical issues, such as Peyronie’s disease (curvature of the penis) or previous penile surgery that has led to ED, may make other treatments less effective. In such cases, a prosthesis can help achieve a straighter and more functional erection.
6. Patient Preference: Some men prefer the reliability and spontaneity of an implantable prosthesis over other treatment options like vacuum erection devices, penile injections, or external vacuum pumps.