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Innovating Incrementally: Development of the Modern Inflatable Penile Prosthesis
Mark Ehlers1, Benjamin McCormick1, R Matthew Coward1
1University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, 2105 Physician's Office Building, 170 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
Current Urology Reports
|March 9, 2019
Summary
The inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) has seen significant advancements since 1973. Modern IPPs offer improved reliability, safety, and user experience due to device and surgical enhancements.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- The inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) was first developed in 1973.
- The fundamental design of the IPP has remained consistent since its inception.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review modifications to the inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP).
- To assess the impact of these changes on device performance and patient outcomes.
- To discuss future directions for IPP development.
Main Methods:
- Review of available data on IPP modifications.
- Analysis of improvements in device design, surgical techniques, and peri-operative management.
Main Results:
- Numerous improvements have enhanced IPP reliability, infection control, safety, and user experience.
- Modern IPPs demonstrate excellent performance and a favorable safety profile.
- Ongoing design changes are expected to yield more versatile penile prostheses.
Conclusions:
- The inflatable penile prosthesis has evolved significantly since 1973.
- Continued innovation promises further advancements in penile prosthesis technology.
- Future developments aim to enhance both functionality and patient satisfaction.
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