Our Summary

This study looked at how different surgical methods might affect the placement of inflatable penile implants, which are a treatment for erectile dysfunction. The researchers collected data from six experienced surgeons who perform this operation. They recorded information such as where the incision was made, measurements of the penis, the duration of the surgery, the type of implant used, and where the fluid reservoir for the implant was placed. They analyzed data from 1,757 patients who were receiving an implant for the first time. They found that the measurements of the penis didn’t change significantly regardless of the surgical method used. The study didn’t provide a clear answer on whether different surgical methods affect the placement of the implant, but it did show that the surgeons who perform this operation most often didn’t have significant differences in their results regardless of the technique they used.

FAQs

  1. What was the main focus of the study regarding penile implant surgery?
  2. Did the study find any significant differences in penis measurements based on different surgical methods?
  3. Did the study provide any conclusions on how different surgical methods affect the placement of the penile implant?

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 ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the surgical area clean and dry, taking prescribed medications as directed, and attending follow-up appointments with the surgeon. It is important to communicate any concerns or issues with the surgeon promptly to ensure the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended penile implant surgery are those who have tried other treatments for erectile dysfunction, such as medications or vacuum devices, without success. Candidates for penile implant surgery may include:

  1. Men with severe erectile dysfunction that does not respond to other treatments.
  2. Men with anatomical issues that prevent them from achieving or maintaining an erection.
  3. Men with medical conditions, such as diabetes or prostate cancer, that have caused erectile dysfunction.
  4. Men who have undergone treatments, such as prostate surgery, that have resulted in erectile dysfunction.
  5. Men who have psychological issues that contribute to their erectile dysfunction.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a urologist or sexual health specialist to determine if penile implant surgery is the right treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before penile implant surgery:

  1. Patient consults with urologist or surgeon to discuss treatment options for erectile dysfunction.
  2. Patient undergoes various tests and evaluations to determine if they are a candidate for penile implant surgery.
  3. Patient and healthcare provider discuss the risks, benefits, and expectations of the surgery.
  4. Patient may need to make lifestyle changes or adjustments to medications before surgery.
  5. Patient receives pre-operative instructions and prepares for the surgery date.

After penile implant surgery:

  1. Patient is monitored in the recovery room immediately after surgery.
  2. Patient may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
  3. Patient is instructed on how to care for the incision site and manage pain post-operatively.
  4. Patient may need to refrain from sexual activity for a period of time as directed by their healthcare provider.
  5. Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor healing and function of the implant.
  6. Patient may undergo physical therapy or counseling to address any psychological or emotional concerns related to the surgery.
  7. Patient resumes sexual activity once cleared by their healthcare provider and may require adjustments to the implant as needed.

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 and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  3. Will the implant affect the size or sensation of my penis?
  4. How long do penile implants typically last and are there any maintenance requirements?
  5. What are the potential alternatives to penile implant surgery?
  6. How experienced are you in performing penile implant surgery and what is your success rate?
  7. Will the implant be noticeable or affect my ability to engage in sexual activity?
  8. What type of implant do you recommend for my specific case and why?
  9. Will insurance cover the cost of penile implant surgery and what are the associated expenses?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take before or after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Lauwers NL, Van Renterghem K, Osmonov D, Suarez-Sarmiento A, Perito P, Park S, Andrianne R, Ralph D, Mykoniatis I. Journal: Int J Impot Res. 2023 Sep;35(6):539-543. doi: 10.1038/s41443-022-00593-1. Epub 2022 Jun 27. PMID: 35760888