Penile prosthesis is a permanent and effective treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction. These prostheses, which are surgically applied for patients who cannot get results with other methods, can improve the quality of sexual life and restore psychological self-confidence. Today, thanks to modern medical technologies, different types of penile prostheses are available and options are offered to suit the needs and lifestyle of the person.
What is Penile Prosthesis?
Penile prosthesis is an artificial device surgically implanted into the penis to provide a permanent solution for men with erectile dysfunction. This method, which is preferred in cases where adequate results cannot be obtained with drug treatment, injection or other methods, helps men achieve the hardness required for sexual intercourse in the closest way to the natural appearance.
Penile prostheses are generally divided into two main groups: bendable (semi-rigid) and inflatable (hydraulic) models. Bendable prostheses offer continuously rigid structures that can be positioned by hand, while inflatable prostheses create a more natural erection sensation and can be deflated when not needed. Which type to use is determined by the patient's lifestyle, expectations and physical condition.
Modern penile prostheses are highly advanced in terms of both aesthetics and functionality. The recovery period after the operation is usually short and the success rate is quite high. It is of great importance that the application is performed by a specialized urological surgeon in terms of both safe results and patient satisfaction.
Penile Prosthesis Types
Penile prostheses are medical devices used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction and can be shaped according to the patient's needs. Today, with the advancement of technology, prosthesis types with different features have been developed and thus more personalized solutions have been offered to patients. Penile prostheses are generally analyzed in two main groups: malleable and inflatable models.
1. Malleable Penile Prosthesis (Malleable Prosthesis):
This type of prosthesis is created by inserting two semi-rigid cylinders into the penis. It is very practical to use; the person can manually position it in the appropriate position and make it ready for sexual intercourse. The prosthesis is permanently rigid, which may be a comfort disadvantage for some patients, but the risk of mechanical failure is very low. It is generally preferred for older patients or those with limited manual dexterity.
2. Inflatable Penile Prostheses (Inflatable Prosthesis):
Made with more advanced technology, this type of prosthesis offers the closest experience to a natural erection. It usually consists of three parts: cylinders inserted into the penis, a pump inserted into the scrotum (scrotum) and a fluid reservoir inserted into the abdomen. By squeezing the pump, the patient fills the cylinders with fluid and an erection is achieved; the system can be restored after the procedure. It is quite natural in appearance and can be deflated when not desired. It is the most preferred model in terms of aesthetics and functionality.
Both types of penile prosthesis have their advantages and disadvantages. Which model is appropriate is decided in line with the patient's physical condition, lifestyle, expectations and doctor's advice.
How is Penile Prosthesis Surgery Performed?
Penile prosthesis surgery is a surgical procedure for men who experience erectile dysfunction (erectile dysfunction) and do not get results from other treatment methods. This surgery involves the insertion of a specially designed prosthesis into the penis to improve the patient's quality of life and sexual satisfaction. The procedure is performed in a sterile hospital environment and usually under general or spinal anesthesia.
The surgical process may vary depending on the type of prosthesis preferred by the patient. However, in general, the procedure proceeds in the following steps:
- Preparation: The general health status of the patient is evaluated before the surgery. Necessary blood tests and imaging are performed. The type of prosthesis to be used is selected together with the patient.
- Surgical Procedure: The surgeon makes a small incision at the root of the penis or in the lower abdomen. Through this incision, appropriate spaces are prepared for the prosthesis to be placed in the spongy tissue of the penis (corpora cavernosa).
- Bükülebilir protez tercih edilmişse, iki adet esnek çubuk penis içine yerleştirilir.
- Şişirilebilir protez tercih edilmişse, penis içine silindirler, testis torbasına pompa ve karın içine rezervuar yerleştirilir. Tüm parçalar birbirine bağlantılıdır ve gizli şekilde yerleştirilir.
- Bükülebilir protez tercih edilmişse, iki adet esnek çubuk penis içine yerleştirilir.
- Closure and Recovery: After all the parts have been placed, the incision site is closed and dressed. The duration of surgery usually varies between 1-2 hours. Patients can usually be discharged the same day or the next day.
The healing process continues for several weeks after the surgery. Detailed information and training on the use of the prosthesis is given to the patient by the doctor or health personnel. For inflatable prostheses, active use usually begins after 4-6 weeks.
Penile prosthesis surgery has a high success rate and satisfaction level is quite high when performed by a specialized urological surgeon. Hygiene, surgical technique and patient follow-up are of great importance to minimize the risk of infection and to ensure the longevity of the prosthesis.
Recovery Process After Penile Prosthesis Surgery
The recovery period after penile prosthesis surgery is an important period in which the patient recovers both physically and psychologically. After the successful completion of the surgery, some basic points that the patient should pay attention to are of great importance in terms of healthy functioning of the prosthesis and minimizing the risk of infection
You can usually be discharged the same day or the next day after surgery. Mild pain, swelling and bruising may be observed for the first few days; this is quite normal and can be easily controlled with painkillers prescribed by the doctor. Patients are usually advised to rest for a few days and avoid heavy physical activity.
Here are some things to consider during the healing process:
- Hygiene: Keeping the operation area clean and dry reduces the risk of infection. Dressing should be done as recommended by the doctor and antibiotic treatment should not be interrupted.
- Physical Activity: Heavy lifting, cycling and intense physical exercises should be avoided for the first 4-6 weeks after surgery.
- Sexual Activity: In inflatable penile prostheses, sexual intercourse is usually allowed after 4-6 weeks. During this time, the body heals completely and the patient learns how to use the prosthesis under the guidance of his doctor.
- Controls: Postoperative controls should not be neglected. These visits are important to check that the prosthesis is fitting and functioning correctly and to detect possible complications early.
Most patients have a smooth postoperative recovery and return to their normal life in a short time. Prosthesis use may require habituation, but the process can be easily managed in line with the doctor's recommendations. With a successful recovery, patients' quality of life and sexual self-confidence are greatly improved.
Risks and Complications of Penile Prosthesis Surgery
Penile prosthesis surgery is a surgical method that offers a permanent solution to erectile dysfunction and has a high success rate. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some risks and complication possibilities in this surgery. Although these risks are generally low, they can be controlled with patient information and correct surgical techniques.
1. Infection:
One of the most important risks of penile prosthesis surgery is infection. This risk is slightly higher especially in individuals with diabetes or weak immune systems. Paying attention to hygiene rules before and after surgery, appropriate antibiotic use and sterile surgical environment greatly reduce this risk.
2. Prosthesis Failure or Mechanical Problems:
Over time, inflatable prostheses may develop mechanical failure of the pump or cylinders. Although this is rare, the prosthesis may need to be replaced. Quality product selection and the surgeon's experience are effective in preventing such problems.
3. Pain and Discomfort:
Mild pain and discomfort in the first days after surgery is normal. However, some patients may experience prolonged discomfort after prosthesis placement. This is usually related to the process of getting used to the body and decreases over time.
4. Rejection or displacement of the prosthesis by the body:
In rare cases, the prosthesis may not be accepted by the body or may be displaced. In such cases, revision surgery may be required.
5. Bleeding or Hematoma:
Internal bleeding or hematoma (accumulation of blood) may occur at the incision site after surgery. This usually resolves spontaneously, but intervention may be required in some cases.
6. Loss of Sexual Sensation:
Penile prosthesis does not cause loss of sexual sensation; however, some patients may experience psychological effects or temporary adaptation problems during the first period of use. This can be overcome with expert support.
Although these risks are present, complication rates are very low as a result of operations performed by an experienced urological surgeon. With detailed preoperative evaluation, correct patient selection and regular follow-up, unwanted situations can be avoided to a great extent.
Who is Penile Prosthesis Suitable for?
Penile prosthesis is a suitable treatment option for men who cannot achieve sufficient hardness with methods such as drug therapy, vacuum device or injection and whose sexual life is negatively affected. Penile prosthesis offers a permanent and effective solution, especially in patients with erectile dysfunction due to underlying health problems such as diabetes, heart disease or vascular problems.
This surgical method is ideal for men who have normal functions such as sexual desire and ejaculation but only have erectile dysfunction. At the same time, in individuals who are psychologically affected by this condition and whose quality of life is reduced, both physical and emotional recovery can be achieved with prosthesis. However, the suitability for each patient should be determined after a detailed evaluation by a urologist.
