Men who have Erectile Dysfunction (ED) are treated using devices that are usually embedded within the penis. This penile procedure is often the last resort after all other ED treatments fail to show favorable results. 

Presently, there are two different penile implant categories; inflatable and semirigid implants. The patient needs to have surgery to have these implants placed inside the penis 1.

It is advisable that you first go over the basics of penile implant 2020 procedures and ensure that you understand what is involved. Here are five things you need to consider before making that first step.

Why You Need a Penile Implant

In case you are unable to get an erection during sexual activity after trying other methods, you could opt to get the surgery done. You might also want to do it if all other treatment forms do not accommodate you as a potential candidate. 

However, a doctor may discourage penile implant surgery if the ED is reversible or emotional distress. A patient with uncontrolled diabetes or one with a urinary tract infection is advised against taking the procedure.

Potential Risks Involved

There are various risks tied to penile implant surgery, such as:

  • Possible Infection: Infections are quite common with surgeries, and for a person with diabetes or a spinal injury, this is a much more pronounced risk 2.
  • Implant issues: In some isolated cases, the penile implants may not function as intended. In such a case, surgery is done to repair or take out the implant
  • Internal adhesion or erosion: There is a significant chance of the implant sticking with the inner skin of the penis, which could result in the tissue wearing out. Quite often, this always results in an infection.

How to Best Prepare

After you discuss with your doctor about the penile implant surgery, they will often:

  • Take a look at your medical history to review medical conditions in the past.
  • Perform a physical exam to confirm the condition. 
  • Ask you what you expect from the procedure to advise you on the long-term implications.

Penile Implant Types

The main categories of penile implants are:

  • Inflatable implants: This type of implant is generally preferred since it can be inflated and give rise to an erection. It makes use of inflatable cylinders that work by pumping fluid inside them and later releasing it for deflation
  • Semi-Rigid rods: These devices are firm, and therefore, the penis can be moved away from the pelvic area to hide it or moved away for sexual activity. The folding sections are usually made out of spring on every end 3

What You Should Expect

Before getting the procedure, your doctor may administer general anesthesia that primarily inhibits pain around the pelvic region. The doctor proceeds to insert a suitable implant according to your body size. 

Post-surgery medications are then administered to help with pain management. The doctor will then advise you on when you can resume normalcy.

Final Thoughts on Penile Implant 2020 Considerations

Penile implant surgery is an invasive procedure, and most ED patients don’t have it as a first-choice treatment. Most of those who do have expressed their contentment with these implants. On average, the device can work well for 10 to 20 years 4.

Links to Sources Used: 

  1. Penile implants: a look into the future https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5715181/
  2. Current approach to the treatment of penile implant infections https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3126071/
  3. Treating erectile dysfunction with penile implants https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/treating-erectile-dysfunction-with-penile-implants-2009031132
  4. Penile Prosthesis Implant https://www.stonybrookmedicine.edu/patientcare/urology/menshealth/penileimplants