Penile Implant (Penile Prosthesis) for Erectile Dysfunction
Penile Prosthesis
A penile prosthesis is a medical device that is surgically implanted into the body generally through an outpatient procedure.
Dr. Fleming has had great success with patients receiving penile implants, and it provides satisfaction for many men unable to get satisfactory erections in other ways.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks including bleeding, infection, failure, damage to adjacent tissues, post-procedure swelling/discomfort.
Pros: Work very well, can cause increased girth and some length, works when needed. Reimbursed well by insurance companies.
Cons: Major surgery with risk of infection, failure, etc. Can fail later, no going back to other options after surgery.
More About Penile Prostheses:
There are three types of prostheses on the market, a one piece (malleable), a two-piece inflatable, and a three-piece inflatable.
This is the simplest type of prosthesis. The implant is basically a pair of cylinders placed into the corpus cavernosa that bend up or down for erection or everyday activity.
Pros: Easy to use. Good for those with limited dexterity. Simplest surgical procedure. 91% satisfaction rate according to manufacturer-based studies.
Cons: Remains firm even when pointed down. Not as appropriate if you require repeated cystoscopies.
Consists of a pair of fluid-filled cylinders that are implanted in the penis, replacing the corpus cavernosa, and a small pump/valve implanted in the scrotum.
To cause erection, squeeze and release the pump several times. This causes fluid to be moved into the cylinders creating a rigid erection.
Pros: Totally concealed. Simple to inflate/deflate. 90 percent of partners would recommend to other couples according to manufacturer-based studies.
Cons: Requires more dexterity than one piece implants. Cylinders do not drain completely when deflated, causing some firmness.
A pair of fluid- filled cylinders replace the corpus cavernosa, a pump/valve is implanted in the scrotum next to a testicle, and a reservoir chamber is placed in the lower abdomen. When the pump/valve is activated, fluid is moved into the cylinders creating rigidity and girth expansion.
Pros: Totally concealed. Provides a more natural erection with girth as well as rigidity. Easily inflated/deflated. Models can be chosen which expand girth and length. Cylinders are soft and flaccid when deactivated. 92 percent patient satisfaction rate according to manufacturer-based studies.
Cons: Requires more dexterity than one piece implants.
Penile Prosthesis
Post Procedure Instructions:
You Should:
- Apply antibiotic ointment to the wound twice a day for the first week.
- Apply ice to the penis and scrotum
- Take antibiotics and pain medications as instructed.
Restrictions:
- No Tub bathing for 5 days
- Do not inflate the prosthesis until instructed otherwise (usually 3-4 weeks)
- Wait to have sex until advised it is OK by our staff (usually 6 weeks)
You Can Expect:
- A lot of bruising and swelling lasting about 3 weeks
- Swelling and pain will decrease by applying ice to the penis and scrotum for at least a few days.
- Pain medication may cause constipation, you may take a laxative if this occurs
You Should Call the Office:
- If you develop a temperature of 100.6 or greater
- Any skin separation of the wound
- If any of the prosthesis components become visible.
- If you are not contacted for a follow up appointment one business day after your surgery
- If you develop calf tenderness or swelling
