The inflatable penile prosthesis—the ultimate treatment for severe erectile dysfunction

madman

Super Moderator
* Data from the literature consistently supports the inflatable penile prosthesis as the ultimate treatment for ED, despite its irreversible nature, arising from the destruction of the natural tissue involved in erection. We conclude that the penile prosthesis should be offered as the last alternative treatment, only for regaining erectile function but not for the enlargement of the penis.


* Today, the treatment armamentarium includes reassurance, psychotherapy, medications, life-style changes and external devices, all of which have proven efficacy and play a critical role in a personalized, stepwise approach. When conservative measures fail, penile prosthesis implantation remains the final therapeutic option. This procedure has demonstrated long-term safety, efficacy and high patient acceptance, particularly in those who are strongly motivated to restore erectile function.





Abstract

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a long-standing condition that benefits from modern treatments. For those seeking medical attention for ED, it brings a significant negative impact on health-related quality of life and self-esteem. The penile prosthesis represents the last option in the therapeutic hierarchy for this condition, and the last decades have seen major improvements in both mechanics, durability and safety of this implant. Herein, this review highlights the most commonly used penile prosthetic devices, the surgical techniques involved, and the current evidence supporting their safety and effectiveness. Data from the literature consistently supports the inflatable penile prosthesis as the ultimate treatment for ED, despite its irreversible nature, arising from the destruction of the natural tissue involved in erection. We conclude that the penile prosthesis should be offered as the last alternative treatment, only for regaining erectile function but not for the enlargement of the penis.



3.2 The devices


3.3 Surgical Technique


3.4 Intraoperative complications


3.5 Follow-up


3.6 Postoperative complications




4. Conclusions


Erectile dysfunction, although not a life-threatening medical condition, represents a significant psychosocial issue both for the patient and his sexual partner. It has a profound impact on health-related quality of life, emotional well-being, and self-esteem. Despite this, many patients do not seek medical attention, and treatment should be reserved for those who are motivated to regain their erectile function.

In recent decades, there has been a notable evolution in both therapeutic options and clinical attitudes toward erectile dysfunction. Today, the treatment armamentarium includes reassurance, psychotherapy, medications, life-style changes and external devices, all of which have proven efficacy and play a critical role in a personalized, stepwise approach. When conservative measures fail, penile prosthesis implantation remains the final therapeutic option. This procedure has demonstrated long-term safety, efficacy and high patient acceptance, particularly in those who are strongly motivated to restore erectile function.


It is important to emphasize that penile prosthesis surgery is irreversible, and this aspect should be clearly and extensively discussed with the patient and documented in the medical files. While some degree of penile length preservation or enhancement may be achieved, this procedure should not be marketed as a method to increase penile length or girth. Instead, it must be positioned as a functional intervention aimed solely at restoring erectile capacity.
 

hCG Mixing Calculator

HCG Mixing Protocol Calculator

TRT Hormone Predictor Widget

TRT Hormone Predictor

Predict estradiol, DHT, and free testosterone levels based on total testosterone

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

This tool provides predictions based on statistical models and should NOT replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your TRT protocol.

ℹ️ Input Parameters

Normal range: 300-1000 ng/dL

Predicted Hormone Levels

Enter your total testosterone value to see predictions

Results will appear here after calculation

Understanding Your Hormones

Estradiol (E2)

A form of estrogen produced from testosterone. Important for bone health, mood, and libido. Too high can cause side effects; too low can affect well-being.

DHT

Dihydrotestosterone is a potent androgen derived from testosterone. Affects hair growth, prostate health, and masculinization effects.

Free Testosterone

The biologically active form of testosterone not bound to proteins. Directly available for cellular uptake and biological effects.

Scientific Reference

Lakshman KM, Kaplan B, Travison TG, Basaria S, Knapp PE, Singh AB, LaValley MP, Mazer NA, Bhasin S. The effects of injected testosterone dose and age on the conversion of testosterone to estradiol and dihydrotestosterone in young and older men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010 Aug;95(8):3955-64.

DOI: 10.1210/jc.2010-0102 | PMID: 20534765 | PMCID: PMC2913038

Online statistics

Members online
2
Guests online
176
Total visitors
178

Latest posts

hCG Mixing Calculator

HCG Mixing Protocol Calculator

Beyond Testosterone Podcast

Back
Top