Our Summary

This research paper is about issues related to erectile dysfunction, a condition where a man is unable to maintain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse. Specifically, it looks at infections that can occur after a penile implant procedure, a common treatment for erectile dysfunction. The study also explores ways to salvage (or save) the implant after an infection has occurred, as well as other aspects of urologic prosthetic surgery. Urologic prosthetic surgery is a type of surgery that involves the insertion of devices into the body to help with urinary or sexual functions.

FAQs

  1. What is penile implant surgery in the context of urologic prosthetic surgery?
  2. What are the risks of infection in penile implant surgery?
  3. How is erectile dysfunction treated with penile implant surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about penile implant surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to reduce the risk of infection and ensure proper healing. This may include keeping the surgical site clean and dry, taking prescribed antibiotics as directed, and avoiding strenuous activity that could interfere with the healing process. Additionally, it is important to attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your recovery progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Penile implant surgery is typically recommended for patients who have erectile dysfunction that has not responded to other treatments, such as medication or vacuum devices. This includes patients with conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease that may affect blood flow to the penis. Additionally, penile implant surgery may be recommended for patients who have experienced trauma or injury to the penis, or who have had surgery for prostate cancer or other conditions that may have damaged the nerves or blood vessels involved in erections. In some cases, penile implant surgery may also be recommended for patients who have a medical condition that makes other treatments for erectile dysfunction unsafe or ineffective.

Timeline

Before Penile Implant Surgery:

  1. Consultation with a urologist to discuss treatment options for erectile dysfunction.
  2. Evaluation of medical history and physical examination to determine if a penile implant is a suitable option.
  3. Pre-operative testing, such as blood work and imaging studies, to assess overall health and identify any potential risks.
  4. Counseling on the benefits and risks of penile implant surgery, as well as expectations for recovery and post-operative care.

After Penile Implant Surgery:

  1. Immediate post-operative care in the hospital or surgical center, including monitoring for complications and pain management.
  2. Follow-up appointments with the urologist to monitor healing and adjust medications as needed.
  3. Rehabilitation exercises to promote proper function and use of the penile implant.
  4. Resumption of sexual activity once cleared by the urologist, typically within 4-6 weeks after surgery.
  5. Long-term follow-up care to monitor the function of the penile implant and address any issues that may arise.

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after penile implant surgery can vary depending on individual factors such as overall health, surgical technique, and post-operative care. It is important for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare providers and follow their recommendations for optimal outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with penile implant surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after surgery and what can I expect during this time?
  3. What type of penile implant is recommended for me and why?
  4. How will the implant affect my ability to achieve and maintain an erection?
  5. Will I still be able to ejaculate after having a penile implant?
  6. What are the chances of infection following the surgery and how can I minimize this risk?
  7. How long does a penile implant typically last and what is the process for replacing it if needed?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after getting a penile implant?
  9. Will having a penile implant affect my ability to engage in sexual activity or have a healthy sex life?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies for erectile dysfunction that I should consider before opting for a penile implant?

Reference

Authors: Lentz AC. Journal: J Sex Med. 2022 Jun;19(6):895-898. doi: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.02.022. Epub 2022 Mar 24. PMID: 35341726