Penile Prosthesis Surgery Demystified: Understanding Types, Surgical Process, Risks and Postoperative Care
World of Urology is a distinguished leader in urological care, uniting the finest urologists from Bangalore's top hospitals. With a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional healthcare services, they cater to patients from around the globe, ensuring access to the best urological treatments and expertise. Among their comprehensive array of services, Penile Prosthesis Surgery is recognized as the most highly rated, reflecting their dedication to excellence in patient care.
Penile Prosthesis Surgery is a surgical procedure designed to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED) by implanting a device that allows men to achieve and maintain an erection. This procedure is typically recommended for those who have not benefited from other treatments or patients with Peyronie’s disease or other conditions affecting erectile function.
Types of Penile Prostheses
There are three main types of penile prostheses surgeries namely, Malleable (or Semi-Rigid) Prostheses. Here two rods that can be bent into position for an erection are used. They provide a permanent state of readiness but do not allow for a flaccid state; Two-Piece Inflatable Prostheses where two cylinders are implanted in the penis and a pump is located in the scrotum. The pump transfers fluid from a reservoir to inflate the cylinders, allowing for an erection when desired; and the Three-Piece Inflatable Prostheses which is similar to the Two-Piece, but with an additional reservoir placed in the abdomen. This type offers better control over the erection and allows for a more natural flaccid state when deflated.
Procedure overview
The patient undergoing penile prosthesis surgery is administered general or spinal anesthesia. Then a small incision is made in the penis or scrotum and the prosthesis is inserted into the corpora cavernosa, the erectile tissues of the penis. Patients usually stay in the hospital for one to two days post-surgery.
Risks and considerations
While the surgery can significantly improve sexual function, it does carry risks such as:
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Infection
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Mechanical failure of the device
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Changes in penile sensation
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Potential shortening of the penis
Minimising risks
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Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics 1-2 hours prior to surgery to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination during the procedure
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Ensure tight glycemic control in diabetic patients to improve immune function and wound healing. Aim for HbA1c levels below 7.7% to reduce infection risk.
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Treat any existing urinary tract infections (UTIs) before surgery to minimize bacterial load.
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Ensure that the procedure is performed by experienced surgeons skilled in penile prosthesis implantation, as their expertise can reduce complications
Post-operative care
Patients may experience some discomfort and will need to follow specific guidelines for recovery, including restrictions on sexual activity for a period of time. Lifestyle choices like smoking and obesity may negatively affect healing and increase complication risks post-surgery, thereby impacting the longevity of the prosthesis.
Benefits of surgery
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For many men, penile prosthesis implantation restores the ability to achieve and maintain an erection, which can greatly enhance self-esteem and sexual confidence.
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Studies indicate that successful implantation can lead to decreased anxiety and depressive symptoms related to sexual performance, as patients regain a sense of normalcy in their sexual lives.
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Research suggests that penile implants significantly enhance quality of life, particularly in the psychosexual domain. Patients often report improved relationships and greater overall happiness following successful implantation.
Penile prosthesis surgery is a viable option for men suffering from ED who seek a reliable solution after other treatments have failed. It restores sexual function effectively while allowing patients to engage in penetrative sexual activity without interfering with urination or orgasm. The expert doctors at World of Urology can help you through all the stages of the surgery. Book an appointment today.