Penile Implants

Abstract

Effective penile implants were introduced in the early 1970s and have provided a predictable and reliable treatment of erectile dysfunction. They can be placed in almost all circumstances in which more conservative treatments have been ineffective or are contraindicated. Manufacturers of these devices have improved their functioning and durability, and repair rates are low when compared with other mechanical products. Infection rates associated with implantation of these devices have declined because of the introduction of antibiotic-coated products, and salvage procedures have greatly reduced the need for implant removal under these circumstances. The satisfaction among both patients and partners using penile implants is in the range of 80-90%, a higher rate than that for any of the other treatments of erectile dysfunction.