Prosthetics

Penile Prosthesis

Penile implants, unlike testicular implants, are devices placed inside the penis to allow men with erectile dysfunction (ED) to get an erection. Penile implants are typically recommended after other treatments for ED fail.

For most men, erectile dysfunction can be successfully treated with medications or the use of a penis pump (vacuum constriction device). You might consider penile implants if you aren’t a candidate for other treatments or you can’t get an erection sufficient for sexual activity by using other methods.

Choosing the penile prosthesis that is most optimal for you is a very personal decision. Because each type of prosthesis offers unique features, you will want to discuss the choices with your doctor to identify your best option.

  • One-Piece, Positionable Prosthesis (Malleable) are the simplest types of penile prosthesis. This prosthesis consists of a pair of cylinders that are surgically inserted into the penis. The prosthesis is positioned “up” for intercourse or “down” for everyday activities.
  • Three-Piece , fluid-filled inflatable prosthesis features: a pair of cylinders implanted into the penis, a pump implanted into the scrotum, and a reservoir implanted into the lower abdomen. When the fluid is pumped into the cylinders, it creates an erection that provides rigidity and girth expansion.


Testicular Prosthesis

For a variety of reasons, in both children and adults, a testis can be missing or removed. This is where testicular implants come into the picture. This can happen from surgery for cancer, accidental injury, twisting or lack of development of a normal testis.

An artificial testis, often called a testis prosthesis(also referred to as “prosthetic testicle” or “testicular implants”), can be implanted to restore the normal appearance of the scrotum and to hopefully restore quality of life.

Testicular implants are pouches that are placed in the scrotum. They are made of solid or gel silicone and have a silicone covering. Some types are coated with polyurethane foam.



Artificial Urinary Sphincters

An artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) is an implanted device to treat urinary incontinence in men. The AUS is designed to supplement the function of the natural urinary sphincter that restricts urine flow out of the bladder.

Most AUS devices employ an inflatable clamp or collar that is fitted around the urethra to supplement or supplant the function of the natural sphincter. The clamp is inflated automatically and deflated manually by a pump that, depending on the model, is variously placed within the scrotum (for models intended for adult men)