How a Penile Prosthesis Works
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)
One-piece, positionable prostheses are the simplest types of penile
prostheses. 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.
Advantages
- Totally concealed in the body
- Easy for you and your partner to use
- Good options for men with limited dexterity
- Generally the simplest surgical procedure
- Patient need only bend the prosthesis to conceal
- 91% patient satisfaction rate
Disadvantages
- Remains firm when not being used
- Less appropriate for patients requiring repeated cystoscopy
Two-Piece, Inflatable Prosthesis
The two-piece, inflatable prosthesis consists of a fluid-filled pair of
cylinders implanted into the penis and a small pump implanted into the
scrotum. To acheive erection, simply squeeze and release the pump several
times. When the fluid is pumped into the cylinders, it creates an erection
that provides rigidity.
Advantages
- Totally concealed in body
- Simple to use
- One-step deflation
- Device inflation for rigidity and deflation for concealment
- 90% of partners would recommend it to other couples
Disadvantages
- Requires some manual dexterity
- Cylinders remain partially filled with fluid when deflated
Three-Piece, Inflatable Prosthesis
The 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.
Advantages
- Totally concealed in body
- Like a natural erection
- Device inflation for rigidity and deflation for concealment
- Expands in girth (all AMS 700&reserved; cylinders) and length (AMS 700 LGX&trademark; and Ultrex&trademark; cylinders)
- When deflated, the cylinders are soft and flaccid
- AMS 700 with InhibiZone&reserved; is the only inflatable penile prosthesis with clinical evidence that shows a significant reduction in the rate of revision due to infection
- Parylene coating increases durability
- 92% patient satisfaction rate
Disadvantages
- Requires some manual dexterity