Penile Prosthesis: Device Choices, Risks and Revitalize Care

A penile prosthesis may be considered for erectile dysfunction when other appropriate treatments have not worked, are unsuitable or are not acceptable. The choice must follow specialist assessment; a brand name cannot establish the best device for an individual.

Device options and assessment

Inflatable and malleable implants work differently. Assessment should cover the cause of erectile dysfunction, previous treatments, urinary or penile conditions, diabetes and infection risk, medicines, manual dexterity, expectations and the patient’s ability to operate the device.

Important limitations

An implant creates rigidity but does not restore natural erectile tissue, libido, sensation, orgasm or fertility. Device choice depends on anatomy, health, surgeon experience, availability and informed preference. Future revision or replacement may be required.

Risks

Risks include infection, bleeding, pain, erosion, injury to surrounding structures, altered sensation, device migration or mechanical failure, difficulty operating the device, dissatisfaction, removal and revision. Infection can require removal and delayed replacement.

The British Association of Urological Surgeons information outlines erectile-dysfunction treatments and specialist assessment.

Genuine Revitalize patient experience

“The implant has given me a new lease on life. I feel like myself again, and I’m grateful for the confidence it has brought me.”

This is one individual Revitalize patient experience. It does not predict another patient’s function, relationship, recovery, device life or result.

Revitalize care checks

Confirm the named contracted surgeon and hospital, exact device and manufacturer, alternatives, anaesthesia, tests, written quotation, activation and training plan, follow-up and complication route. See Revitalize’s penile-prosthesis information and assessment route.