Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence) – Penile Prosthesis Implantation

Erectile dysfunction (ED), or impotence, is a condition where a man is unable to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for satisfactory sexual intercourse. This can be a result of various causes, including psychological factors, health issues such as diabetes or high blood pressure, or damage to the nerves and blood vessels responsible for an erection.

The diagnosis of erectile dysfunction involves a comprehensive medical examination, including a history of the patient’s symptoms, a physical examination, and laboratory tests to rule out possible causes. In some cases, specific tests such as nocturnal penile tumescence monitoring may be used to determine if there are nocturnal erections, which can help distinguish between physical and psychological causes.

Penile implants are a surgical treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction who have not had success with other treatments, such as medications, vacuum devices, or injections. There are two main types of penile implants: semi-rigid prostheses and inflatable (inflatable) prostheses.
Semi-rigid implants provide constant firmness to the penis, while inflatable implants allow the user to control the timing and duration of the erection through an inflation mechanism. Inflatable implants, which mimic a more natural erection, are generally considered preferable due to greater discretion and comfort.
The surgical procedure requires careful preparation and discussion with a urologist about expectations and possible risks. The postoperative period includes recovery and rehabilitation, with gradual familiarization with the function of the implant. It is important to keep in mind that, while penile implants can significantly improve the quality of sexual life, they do not affect sexual desire, orgasm, or ejaculation.