For men who are experiencing erectile dysfunction or incontinence, there are advanced implant options available.
These implants may be a good option for men who have tried other treatments that haven’t worked, or who want a more permanent solution to their condition. In this article, we will explore some of the most advanced implants available for these conditions.
Penile Implants for Erectile Dysfunction
Penile implants are devices that are surgically placed in the penis to allow men with erectile dysfunction to achieve and maintain an erection. There are two main types of penile implants: semi-rigid and inflatable.
Semi-rigid Penile Implants
Semi-rigid penile implants consist of two flexible rods that are implanted in the penis. The rods are always firm, but can be bent down for comfort when not in use. To achieve an erection, the man simply bends the rods up.
Semi-rigid penile implants are usually the simplest and cheapest option, but they cannot be adjusted to different sizes, and some men find them uncomfortable.
Inflatable Penile Implants
Inflatable penile implants use a pump that is implanted in the scrotum to inflate two chambers in the penis. The chambers fill with saline to create an erection, and can be deflated by pressing a button on the pump.
Inflatable implants allow for a more natural-looking erection and can be adjusted to different sizes. They are more expensive than semi-rigid implants, but many men find them more comfortable and versatile.
AUS Implants for Urinary Incontinence
For men who are experiencing urinary incontinence, there are artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) implants available. AUS implants are designed to keep the urethra closed to prevent urine from leaking out. There are three main components to an AUS implant:.
Pump: The pump is implanted in the scrotum and is used to inflate and deflate the cuff.
Cuff: The cuff is implanted around the urethra and prevents urine from leaking out.
Pressure Regulating Balloon: The pressure regulating balloon is implanted in the abdomen and regulates the pressure in the cuff.
How AUS Implants Work
When a man with an AUS implant needs to urinate, he presses a button on the pump to release the cuff. This allows urine to flow out of the bladder and through the urethra.
Once he is finished urinating, he presses the button again to close the cuff and prevent urine from leaking out. The pressure regulating balloon ensures that the cuff is always at the right pressure.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, there are risks and complications associated with penile and AUS implants. These can include infection, bleeding, and mechanical failure. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed or replaced.
It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of these procedures with your doctor before deciding to proceed with an implant.
Conclusion
Penile and AUS implants are advanced options for men with erectile dysfunction or urinary incontinence.
While they may not be appropriate for everyone, they can provide a more permanent solution for those who have not found success with other treatments. If you are considering an implant, talk to your doctor to determine whether it is a good option for you.