Who Qualifies as a Candidate for Penile Implant?
For men diagnosed with erectile dysfunction (ED), a penile implant is one of several treatment options. Penile implants are devices that are placed inside the penis to allow a man with ED to achieve an erection.
These devices are typically recommended after other treatments for ED have failed.
Who Should Get a Penile Implant?
The best candidates for penile implant are those men between the ages of 50-90 years old who have had prostate, bladder, or colon cancer treatment, as well as those who have a penile deformity and/or atrophy.
It is also an effective alternative for patients who have not responded to ED medication and are looking to have a normal, spontaneous sex life.
Is a Penal Implant Right for Me?
Not every man with ED is a good candidate for a penile implant, and you and your urologist an discuss your options. Implanting a penile device requires surgery and, like all surgeries, it involves potential risks, complications, and follow-up care. The risks include:
Possible Infection
Any surgery carries this risk. With a penile implant, there is an increased risk of infection if you are diabetic or have a spinal cord injury. Such infections typically occur in the first few weeks after surgery, but they can also appear years later.
If an infection occurs after surgery, the removal of the implant would be necessary to treat the infection. This can be complicated and can lead to a buildup of scar tissue and a decrease in penis length.
Problems with the Implant
While the latest penile implant designs are reliable, there are rare cases in which the implant can malfunction. When this happens, it requires follow-up surgery to remove, repair, or replace the broken implant.
Internal Erosion or Adhesion
There is a small chance that a penile implant will adhere to or wear away the skin within the penis. However, an implant rarely breaks through the skin.
These risks aside, your doctor may decide not to approve you for a penile implant if your ED is merely caused by situational (relationship-related) factors and is therefore potentially reversible through other methods. Also, penile implants are not recommended if you have a pulmonary or urinary tract infection or if you have diabetes that is not well-controlled.
Other ED Treatments
Your doctor may recommend medications or the use of a vacuum constriction device (penis pump), which has proven effective for most men. In any case, a qualified urologist will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and discuss your expectations before exploring the possibility of resolving your ED with a penile implant.
ED Treatment in Concord, NC
If are experiencing erectile dysfunction or any other condition related to the prostate or urinary system such as urgent or frequent urination, bladder leakage, or other symptoms, contact us today. Dr. Richard Natale at Carolina Urology Partners in Concord, North Carolina, will provide compassionate and discreet care – and get you back on track to good urological health.
Call our office today at (704) 786-5131 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to helping you enjoy the healthy, active lifestyle you love.
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