Long-term outcomes of penile prostheses for the treatment of erectile dysfunction

Since their introduction 60 years ago, penile prostheses have remained the standard therapy for the management of refractory erectile dysfunction, with multiple long-term series reporting outcomes. A PubMed search was performed from 1990 to present, and outcomes of penile prosthetics were reviewed. Studies with < 12 months follow-up were excluded. Overall mechanical survival of three-piece prostheses range from 81-94, 68-89 and 57-76% at 5, 10 and 15 years, respectively. Contemporary infection rates following recent device modifications are 1-2% (low risk) to 2-3% (high risk). Patient satisfaction ranges from 75-100% and varies by prosthetic device. Outcomes are further reviewed among specialized populations (revision surgery, Peyronie's disease, priapism, corporal fibrosis and neurologic impairments). Penile prostheses remain a viable surgical treatment option with excellent mechanical reliability, low infection rates and significant patient/partner satisfaction.