Current role of penile implants for erectile dysfunction

The purpose of this review is to appraise new developments and publications in the field of penile prosthetic surgery. Urologists dealing with erectile dysfunction need to recognize the value of penile prosthetic surgery as a very efficacious treatment for this common condition. This type of surgery is needed in a considerable proportion of patients with erectile dysfunction so this review is timely and relevant.

The main themes in the literature covered include risk factors for infection of penile prostheses, its prevention with the use of hydrophilic and antibiotic-coated prostheses, particularly in re-operations, and its management with the new rescue procedures. Surgical tips for prosthetic surgery are also reviewed as well as clinical outcomes and factors influencing them.

Of all the invasive treatments currently available, placement of a penile prosthesis is one of the most successful, giving high levels of satisfaction. With the aid of new technical advances, the risk of infection--the most feared complication--can be minimized so prosthetic surgery may play a major role in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.