In a nutshell
This review outlined recent advances in penile implants.
The authors concluded that penile implants are a safe and effective treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction.
Some background
Penile implants have developed remarkably over the years. Advances in design have led to devices being more durable, safer and more effective in treating erectile dysfunction. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of penile implants and their surgical outcomes.
Methods & findings
Penile prostheses that are available for implantation include malleable (semi-rigid) rods and inflatable devices. Inflatable implants can have a two- or three-piece design. The inflatable three-piece devices are the most commonly used, and are associated with improved satisfaction over the alternatives. Different types of three-piece devices offer users a choice in the design most suitable to them. Malleable devices are typically used in cases of limited hand function (as no inflation is needed).
Outcomes of penile implants are generally very good. Studies have shown that 80 to 90% of men report a high degree of satisfaction after transplant. Implants also provides men with an effective long-term treatment option, since most penile prosthetic devices last more than ten years. The most commonly stated reason for dissatisfaction is a decrease in penile length after surgery (with reports of 0.5 to 1 cm average loss). Recently developed techniques have allowed for better preservation of penile length. Studies have shown that early device inflation (immediately after surgery), for example, minimizes decrease in penile length when compared to delayed device inflation (4 weeks after surgery). The specific prosthetic model used can also affect penile length over time. In one study, men receiving the AMS 700TM LGX prostheses showed an average increase in penile length (1 cm) one year after surgery.
Enhancements in surgical techniques have also improved the safety and efficiency of penile implant procedures. For example, advances on the outer materials used in penile prosthetics have dramatically reduced the likelihood of skin irritation or infection after surgery. Recent reports demonstrate low infection rates associated with penile implants (about 0.5 to 3.5% of penile implant surgeries). Other complications that can arise during surgery include damage to organs such as the urethra (urine tract), blood vessels or nerves. Overall, recent studies have demonstrated a relatively low rate of surgical complications (less than 1% of surgeries).
Penile implants have also been shown to be effective among men with penile fibrosis (such as men with Peyronie’s disease). Although such patients often require additional treatment following surgery.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that penile implants are a safe and effective treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction.
Published By :
Nature Reviews Urology
Date :
Dec 01, 2015
