Key Takeaways:
- Penile prosthesis are a surgical treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction (ED) or Peyronie’s disease who have not responded to other treatments.
- There are two types of penile prosthesis: inflatable and malleable. Inflatable prosthesis offer greater control over erections, while malleable prostheses are simpler and more suitable for those with manual dexterity issues.
- Penile prosthesis can carry risks such as infection, bleeding, and mechanical failure, and should only be considered after discussing the risks and benefits with a qualified urologist.
Arash Rafiei, a board-certified urologist, discusses the use of penile prostheses in treating erectile dysfunction (ED) and Peyronie’s disease, a condition characterized by penile curvature. He notes that penile prosthesis can be a good option for patients who have tried other treatments without success and are still experiencing issues with ED or pain associated with injection therapy.
Rafiei acknowledges that there can be complications associated with the placement of penile prosthesis, particularly in cases where there is scarring or curvature present. However, he notes that over time, most patients will see positive results and be satisfied with the outcome.
Penile prosthesis are one of several treatment options available for men with ED. Other treatments include medications like Viagra and Cialis, injection therapy, and vacuum devices. In cases where these treatments are not effective, penile prosthesis may be recommended.
There are two main types of penile prosthesis: inflatable and malleable. Inflatable prostheses are the more popular option, as they allow for greater control over the timing and duration of erections. These devices consist of two inflatable cylinders that are implanted in the penis, along with a pump that is placed in the scrotum. When the patient wants to achieve an erection, they simply pump fluid from a reservoir into the cylinders, creating a firm erection. When they are finished, they can release the fluid back into the reservoir, deflating the cylinders.
Malleable prosthesis, on the other hand, consists of two flexible rods that are implanted in the penis. These rods are always in a semi-rigid state, allowing the patient to manually position their penis for intercourse. While they may not offer the same level of control as inflatable prostheses, they are a good option for patients who prefer a simpler device or who are unable to operate a pump due to manual dexterity issues.
While penile prosthesis can be a good option for many patients, it is important to note that they are not without risks. Complications associated with the placement of a penile prosthesis can include infection, bleeding, and mechanical failure. In some cases, the device may need to be removed or replaced due to these complications.
It is also worth noting that penile prosthesis are not a first-line treatment for ED or Peyronie’s disease. As with any medical condition, it is important to first explore non-invasive treatment options before considering surgical intervention. However, for patients who have tried other treatments without success, a penile prosthesis may offer a viable solution to their sexual dysfunction.
In conclusion, penile prosthesis are a valuable treatment option for men with ED and Peyronie’s disease who have not responded to other treatments. While the placement of a penile prosthesis can be more difficult in cases where there is curvature or scarring present, most patients will see positive results over time. As with any medical procedure, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of penile prostheses with a qualified urologist before making a decision.
TRANSCRIPTION:
My name is Arash Rafiei, I’m a board certified urologist with Advanced Urology Institute.
If they have erectile dysfunction, they’ve been using medications and they’re still not
seeing good results, but they have that curvature.
Either they’ve done the injection therapy for erectile dysfunction and they’re having
pain with that and they have the curvature, then penile prosthesis is a very good option,
very good at the cost.
We do have complications that can arise with the placement of the penile prosthesis and
it’s maybe a little bit more, the placement of the penile prosthesis can be a little bit
more difficult because of that curvature and the scar tissue that’s in there, but over
time those patients will see a good result and they’re happy with it.
References:
- “Penile Prosthesis: Benefits, Risks, Recovery – Bens Natural Health.” 25 Jul. 2021, https://www.bensnaturalhealth.com/blog/sexual-health/penile-prosthesis/.
- “Erectile dysfunction – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic.” 29 Mar. 2022, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erectile-dysfunction/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355782.
- “What Are the Different Types of Penile Implants? – Urologist.” 19 Oct. 2018, https://www.charlottemenshealth.com/2018/10/19/what-are-the-different-types-of-penile-implants/.
