What is Penile Prosthesis?

Penile prosthesis or penile implants are a custom-fit medical device that is used in order to restore erection in men suffering from erectile dysfunction. It’s a surgical procedure wherein a device is placed into the penis to ensure it produces a natural-feeling erection thus allowing long-suffering men to enjoy a healthy and satisfactory sexual life. Regarded as one of the most common surgeries performed for treating erectile dysfunction, this procedure has been effectively used for over 40 years now.

Types of Penile Prosthesis

Malleable implants: Malleable or non-Inflatable implants usually consist of semi-rigid rods which are surgically placed into the penis. The implant needs to be manually adjusted by the patient to determine the position of the penis. When lifted up, it automatically gets erected and when pushed down, it becomes flaccid again. It also needs to be mentioned that the adjustment does have any effect on either the width or the length of the penis. In addition, this procedure is also the least expensive while being extremely easy to use as well.

Inflatable implants: Inflatable implants are regarded as one of the most popular types of penile prosthesis the world over. Consisting of paired cylinders which are implanted inside the penis, this method undoubtedly mimics a natural erection the closest. In this method, a pump is placed inside the scrotum which is connected to a reservoir of pressurized fluid that is surgically placed in the lower abdomen. When the pump is squeezed, the fluid flows into the cylinders which help in creating an erection. With the ability to inflate and deflate the penis at will, it helps provide rigidity to the penis when inflated and also leaves the penis in a natural, flaccid appearance when deflated. It also needs to be mentioned that all parts of this particular device are totally implanted and concealed inside the body.

Factors to take into consideration

At Fortis, we take mens health very seriously which is why we adopt a personalized, tailored approach to your issue and thereon recommend the best treatment based on a comprehensive assessment. Achieving the desired results is dependent upon which procedure is best suited for each patient. We at Fortis try to determine the best possible solution that will result in complete patient satisfaction. Some important considerations that require to be taken into consideration include:

• Age of the patient

• Size of the penis

• Any previous surgeries in the pubic and abdominal area

• Any previous history of implant surgeries

• Whether or not the penis is circumcised

• Patient’s overall health

• Budget implications

Other key pointers which you should be aware of:

• Did you know that one in 3 patients suffering from the functioning of the penis below 50 years of age has latent cardiac disease?

• Did you know that one in 3 patients diagnosed with cardiac disease below 50 years of age is needing intervention has latent Erectile Dysfunction?

About The Condition

What is ED?

A disorder which affects men affecting their ability to achieve a firm enough- erection for sexual intercourse. It can also be described as the inability to sustain regular erections, or a tendency to maintain erections for only a brief period of time. ED may also be linked to other problems including premature ejaculation. The causes behind this disorder may be many: lifestyle choices such as smoking, excessive drinking, obesity etc., certain medications such as antidepressants, previous surgery around the genital area, diseases such as diabetes, hormonal abnormalities, such as low levels of testosterone or even psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression.

The good news though is that ED is treatable and even curable in many cases. Men across the world have been actively seeking help and thus are able to resume normal sexual activity owing to advances in the treatment of ED. One such treatment is Penile Prosthesis.

About the Treatment

Studies have revealed that almost one in every four men aged 60 and above experience some degree of erectile dysfunction. As a matter of fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) has propagated that Male sexual health is an essential well-being indicator that requires to be monitored. While there are several treatments available including oral medications such as topical medications, injection therapy, Vascular surgery, and vacuum erection devices to choose from – penile implants have proven to be a highly effective and satisfying alternative the world over.

Penile Implant surgery is performed to restore problems with functions of the penis in men under general or spinal anesthesia. The surgery usually takes anywhere between 1 and 2 hours and is essentially an outpatient day surgery which entails no overnight stay is required in the hospital.

An incision is made at the junction between the base of the penis and the top of the scrotum following which two inflatable silicone cylinders are inserted through the incision. These instruments are inserted into the hollow chambers of the penis (corpora cavernosa). In case of an inflatable prosthesis, a small pump and valve are placed in the scrotum while a fluid reservoir is placed under the abdominal wall, next to the bladder via a small, separate incision. The surgeon then goes on to check whether the device is working optimally. This is followed by suturing of the incisions.

In order to minimize pain and swelling, patients will be advised to apply an ice pack to the affected area. In addition, a round of oral antibiotics will be prescribed to minimize the risk of post-operative infections from occurring. Thereon, instructions on how to operate and take care of your new implant will be relayed on to you. In most cases, patients can return to work within a week after their operation if it’s a desk job. Any work involving lifting or physical activity requires a longer period to recuperate muscle strength. Further, all sexual activities can be resumed after a gap of 4-6 weeks unless specifically stated otherwise by your surgeon.

Our Doctors

Problems with the function of the penis mainly ED is a more common condition than you think and you should not be afraid to seek help. At Fortis, we have extensive experience in penile prosthesis treatment and our multi-disciplinary team comprising of Urologists, Andrologists, Endocrinologists, Psychologists, Internal medicine physicians, and Cardiologists are at the forefront of developing new, cutting-edge treatments for penile disorders. They are recognized all across the country and are also involved in world-leading initiatives.

ED Care at Fortis Hospitals, Bangalore

We are known to adopt a practical yet holistic approach to alleviate this common issue faced by men by outlining all possible options thus boosting the self-esteem, confidence and their relationship. We also have a team of specialist urologists who focus exclusively on male urogenital surgery employing the latest technology in purpose-designed rooms. From Peyronies disease, premature ejaculation, Congenital penile curvature, or chordee to micropenis treatments, inter-sex anomalies, and male-factor infertilities – we cover them all with the goal of providing the best urological care.

Beyond the surgical skills of our doctors, we also ensure that patient selection is done efficiently which lays testimony to our high success rates. Because no two cases are the same, accordingly our patients are fully advised of the various treatment options available to them and those considered most appropriate to their specific diagnosis. We also arrange for counselling sessions and provide assistance at every step to make sure that you’re always in the loop, which allows us to deliver the most comprehensive urological care and treatment in the country. At Fortis, we invite you to experience a higher standard of urological care.