Analysis of factors for selection of penal prosthesis in patients with erectile dysfunction

Aim. To investigate the factors influencing the choice of penile prosthesis and to evaluate the results of surgical treatment of patients suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED).

Materials and methods. Surgical results of penile prosthesis implantation in 348 patients were reviewed. The analysis included such factors as age, weight, height, body mass index (BMI) and the type of prosthesis.

Results. It was found that younger patients who tended to have an active lifestyle preferred three-piece prostheses, while older patients tended to favor one-piece prostheses. Weight, height and BMI do not affect the development of ED. A direct correlation between low patient height and increased risk of prosthesis failure and subsequent complications was found. When the patient was circumcised, there were no infections or mechanical failure after implantation.

Discussion. Our results emphasize the importance of an individual approach to the selection of a penile prosthesis, taking into account the physical characteristics and preferences of each patient. Such a factor as short stature is associated with a more limited space for placing the prosthesis pump, which requires consideration when selecting a prosthesis and preparing it for implantation during procedure. Young patients usually choose three-piece prostheses owing to their ability to enlarge the penis during sexual intercourse and to reduce its rigidity and size after sexual intercourse. For older patients, one-piece prostheses are the primary choice due to the age-related surgical risks and affordability of this type of prosthesis.

Conclusions: Our results show the importance of further investigation and taking into account all the different factors that influence the development of ED and the outcome of penile prosthesis implantation.