A surgical algorithm for penile prosthesis placement in men with erectile failure and Peyronie’s disease

Abstract

We developed an algorithm for surgical management and placement of penile prostheses in patients with erectile failure (ED) and Peyronie’s disease (PD). We identified 46 men ages 40 to 77 y with PD who could not attain an adequate erection with sexual stimulation and pharmacotherapy. All men were candidates for penile straightening and inflatable prosthesis placement using the following algorithm. Manual molding was attempted initially, followed by tunica incision for insufficient straightening. For tunical defects greater than 2 cm, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) patch grafting was performed to prevent prosthesis cylinder herniation and recurrent deformity from cicatrix contraction. Mean preoperative penile curvature was 53 degrees (0–90). Prosthesis implantation with manual molding, implant with plaque incision, and implant with plaque incision and PTFE grafting were successfully accomplished in 25 (54%), 12 (26%), and nine (20)% respectively. Mean follow-up was 39 months (range 1–74). Full erectile capacity with a straight phallus was achieved in all patients. Complications included temporary (<8 months) decreased penile sensation in four (9%), mild (<2 cm) penile shortening in three (7%), delayed ejaculation in one (2%), and infection requiring explanation in one diabetic male (2%). All of the implanted prostheses provided satisfactory rigidity with no mechanical failures or recurrent curvature.

We conclude that inflatable penile prosthesis implantation is a safe and effective therapy with a high satisfaction rate in men with ED and PD. The developed algorithm helps define prosthesis placement and straightening techniques to obtain optimal results with minimal complications.