Erectile Dysfunction

Before selecting this form of management, the patient and his sexual partner should be counseled regarding the benefits and risks of this procedure.
Two types of devices are available, a semirigid and a multicomponent inflatable system. With the semirigid prosthesis, 2 matching cylinders are implanted into the corpora cavernosa. These devices provide enough rigidity for penetration and rarely break. The major drawbacks are the cosmetic appearance of the penis, the need for surgery, and the destruction of the natural erectile mechanism when the prosthesis is implanted.
The inflatable devices consist of 2 Silastic or Bioflex cylinders inserted into the corpora cavernosa, a pump placed in the scrotum to inflate the cylinders, and a reservoir that is contained either within the cylinders or in a separate reservoir placed beneath the fascia of the lower abdomen. The inflatable prosthesis generally remains functional for 7-10 years before a replacement may be necessary. …