Penile Prostheses (Implants) for the Treatment of ED
A penile prosthesis is a medical device that is implanted into a man’s body, usually as an outpatient surgical procedure. Penile implants are a viable option when other ED treatments have been unsuccessful or have produced unpleasant side effects. Finding a satisfying solution to erectile dysfunction can be a life-changing event for many men and their partners. Research shows that penile prostheses are more satisfying than other common treatment options.
Overall patient satisfaction is reportedly high with a penile prosthesis, with more than 90% of patients satisfied with the outcomes as compared with 50% of patients satisfied with oral medications.
Two-and Three-piece Inflatable Implants
Two-piece inflatable penile prosthesis
The two- and three-piece inflatable prosthetic devices consist of a fluid-filled pair of cylinders implanted in the penis and a small pump implanted in the scrotum. Both are simple to use, completely concealed inside the body and produce an erection that looks and feels natural.
With the two-piece implant, you simply squeeze and release the pump several times. When the fluid is pumped into the cylinders, it creates an erection that provides rigidity.
Three-Piece Inflatable Prosthesis
Three-piece inflatable penile prosthesis
The three-piece inflatable device has an additional part – a reservoir that is implanted into the lower abdomen. When you are ready to have sex, you pump the fluid from the reservoir into the cylinders to create a rigid erection. After intercourse, you release the valve inside of the scrotum to drain the fluid back into the reservoir to return to flaccidity.
The three-piece inflatable penile prosthesis creates a firmer erection than the two-piece device.
The penile prosthesis is highly recommended – 92% of patients would recommend the penile prosthesis to others and 90% of partners would also recommend this ED treatment.
Advantages:
- Completely concealed inside the body
- Simple to use
- Devices are inflated to provide rigidity and deflated for concealment
- Like a natural erection
- When deflated, the cylinders are soft and flaccid (three-piece implant)
- Completely discreet—no one will know you have it unless you tell them
Disadvantages and Side Effects:
- Requires some manual dexterity
- Cylinders remain partially filled with fluid when deflated (two-piece device)
- Infection may require removal
- Mechanical failure
