Penile Prostheses

Penile prostheses, or penile implants, are devices placed inside the penis to allow men with erectile dysfunction (ED) to get an erection. They are typically recommended after other treatments for ED have failed.

Here's a bit more information about the types of penile prostheses you mentioned:

1. Nonhydraulic Penis Prosthesis: Also known as a semi-rigid or malleable penile prosthesis, this type consists of a pair of flexible rods that are inserted into the penis. The rods always keep the penis firm but can be bent into different positions. While they are less likely to malfunction due to their simplicity, their major disadvantage is that they keep the penis in a constant state of semi-erection, which can be difficult to conceal.

2. Hydraulic Penis Prosthesis: Also known as an inflatable penile prosthesis, this type involves a fluid-filled system. The system includes a pair of cylinders inserted into the penis, a pump placed in the scrotum, and a fluid-filled reservoir placed in the abdomen. The man can produce an erection whenever desired by manually pumping fluid into the cylinders. This type of prosthesis provides the most natural appearance and performance because it allows for control of the timing and duration of the erection.

Penile prostheses can greatly improve quality of life for men with ED, but it's essential to be fully informed before deciding to undergo this surgery. They are not the first line of treatment for ED, and they come with risks, such as infection, device malfunction, and dissatisfaction with the size or feel of the penis. Therefore, penile implants are generally considered only when other treatments for ED have failed, the patient understands the procedure, its risks and complications, and the doctor feels the procedure can be performed safely.

It's also important to have these discussions with the patient's partner, as the decision to get a penile prosthesis can affect them as well.