Our Summary

This research paper investigates a surgical method called the “no-touch” technique and its effectiveness in preventing infections after surgery, especially in procedures involving implantable devices. The study looked at a variety of surgeries, including orthopedic fracture repair, cerebrospinal fluid shunt placement, breast reconstruction/augmentation, and penile prosthesis implantation. The researchers also examined the outcomes of 3342 penile implant surgeries performed by a single surgeon, both with and without the “no-touch” technique. The results showed that the “no-touch” technique, which involves using a mechanical barrier to avoid direct contact, significantly reduced the rate of post-surgery infections. For example, the infection rate for penile implant surgery fell from 5.3% in 2002 to 0.44% when the “no-touch” technique was used. The paper concludes that the “no-touch” technique is an effective way to prevent infection in surgeries involving implantable devices.

FAQs

  1. What is the “no-touch” technique in surgery and how does it work?
  2. How effective was the “no-touch” technique in reducing infections after penile implant surgeries according to the research?
  3. Was the “no-touch” technique only applied to penile implant surgeries in the study or were there other types of procedures involved?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing penile implant surgery to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including keeping the surgical site clean and dry, avoiding strenuous physical activity, and taking prescribed antibiotics as directed. Additionally, they may advise the patient to schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and address any concerns promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for penile implant surgery are those who have erectile dysfunction that has not responded to other treatments such as medication or vacuum devices. This may include patients with conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or neurological disorders that affect blood flow to the penis. Additionally, patients who have undergone prostate cancer treatment or have had a penile injury may also be candidates for penile implant surgery. It is important for patients to discuss their options with a urologist or other healthcare provider to determine if penile implant surgery is the right choice for them.

Timeline

Before penile implant surgery:

  1. Initial Consultation: The patient meets with a urologist to discuss their erectile dysfunction and explore treatment options, including penile implant surgery.

  2. Pre-operative Evaluation: The patient undergoes various tests and evaluations to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery, including blood tests, imaging studies, and a psychological evaluation.

  3. Pre-operative Instructions: The patient receives instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting requirements, medication adjustments, and lifestyle changes.

  4. Surgery Day: The patient arrives at the hospital or surgical center and undergoes the penile implant surgery, which typically takes a few hours to complete.

After penile implant surgery:

  1. Recovery: The patient is monitored closely in the recovery room and may be discharged home the same day or after a short hospital stay, depending on their surgeon’s recommendations.

  2. Post-operative Care: The patient follows specific instructions for wound care, pain management, and activity restrictions to promote healing and prevent complications.

  3. Follow-up Visits: The patient attends follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their progress, address any concerns, and make adjustments to the implant if necessary.

  4. Rehabilitation: The patient may undergo physical therapy or counseling to help them adjust to the implant and improve their sexual function.

Overall, the patient can expect a gradual improvement in their erectile function and satisfaction with the penile implant over time, leading to a significant improvement in their quality of life and sexual well-being.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with penile implant surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect during the recovery period?
  3. Will the penile implant affect sexual function or sensation?
  4. How long will the penile implant last and will it need to be replaced in the future?
  5. Are there any lifestyle changes I need to make before or after the surgery?
  6. What type of penile implant will be used and why is this the best option for me?
  7. How experienced is the surgeon in performing penile implant surgeries?
  8. What is the success rate of penile implant surgery and what are the typical outcomes?
  9. How should I prepare for the surgery, including any pre-operative instructions or restrictions?
  10. What post-operative care will be required and when can I resume normal activities, including sexual activity?

Reference

Authors: Eid JF. Journal: Sex Med Rev. 2016 Jul;4(3):294-300. doi: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2016.01.002. Epub 2016 Apr 5. PMID: 27871962