Preservation Of Penile Length Research Articles

(153) Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy with the Simultaneous Implant of a Penile Prosthesis: Penile Length Preservation After 10 years Follow Up

Abstract Introduction The preservation of the full dimensions of the penis is an important consideration for improving patients' compliance for the treatment after prostatectomy. We performed twenty laparoscopic extraperitoneal RP and simultaneous penile prosthesis implantation (PPI) in order to preserve the full length of the penis and to improve patients' satisfaction in 2013. Objective Objective of the study is to evaluate the ten years follow up of this unique series in the world. Oncological and functional results were analyzed. Methods From June 2013 to June 2014, 20 patients underwent simultaneous PPI (with an AMS InhibiZone prosthesis) and RP laparoscopic. Patients were evaluated by means of urological visits, questionnaires, and objective measurements before surgery, at discharge from the hospital, on postoperative days 21 to 28, each 3 months for the first year, and each 1 year thereafter. The main outcome measures were biochemical recurrence-free rate, penile length, and quality of life. Results 15 patients mean age 71 range 66–75 were reached at the 10-year follow-up-1 died of acute infarction 10 years after surgery, 1 died of disease 7 years after surgery; 3 lost to followup. Partners had mean age 60 with range 37–71 years. Mean preoperative PSA 9.3 (6.3–13.7) at 10 years 0.08 (range 0.01–1.2); Pre-surgical IIEF 11 (range 9–14) to 10 years 23 (range 22–25). 10-year partner satisfaction rating had increased from 8 post-surgical to 7. Penis size unchanged after 10 years: surgery day 9 cm (range: 8.5–9.5) at 10 years 8.8 range (8–9.5). Conclusions In our cases, the simultaneous extraperitoneal laparoscopic surgery of radical prostatectomy and penile prosthesis implantation is an interesting option to offer to selected and highly motivated patients. Preservation of the size of the penis, the possibility of resuming normal sexual activity 21 days after surgery, partner satisfaction and oncological safety with a 10-year follow-up make it a surgical technique to be proposed in clinical practice if performed by a team with experience in prosthetic surgery. Disclosure No.

(098) Does Early Implantation of Penile Prosthesis for Ischemic Priapism Associated with Decreased Complication Rate? A Systematic Review of Literature

Abstract Introduction Ischemic priapism (IP) is a prolonged undesired erection that accounts for >95% of all priapism episodes. Like compartment syndrome, it is characterized by diminished corporal blood flow and can lead to corporal fibrosis, penile shortening, and refractory erectile dysfunction. Penile prosthesis (PP) implantation is the treatment option in IP to treat the priapic episode and to preserve erectile function. However, no standardization exists regarding the optimal timing of PP implantation surgery. Objective The present review aims to systematically analyse the literature comparing early and delayed PP implantation in patients with IP. Methods A systematic search on PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases were searched from inception to July 1st, 2023 and followed by hand searching. All the steps were performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. We assess the quality of evidence and the risk of bias in each included study. Results Three retrospective cohort studies comprising 199 subjects were included in this systematic review. All studies have different definitions of the timing of early PP implantation, ranging from within one week to ≤6 months from the onset of priapism. Despite different types of PP used, all studies agreed that early PP implantation results in lower intraoperative complications, such as corporeal perforation and urethral injury, greater preservation of penile length and girth, and a lower rate of prosthetic revision. On the other hand, the delayed insertion was linked to a longer surgical time because of challenges brought on by fibrotic tissue, with most of them also requiring a smaller cylinder. In regards to post-operative complication, the majority of studies demonstrated that delayed implantation would result in a higher rate of complication rate; however, one study demonstrated that early PP implantation had a higher likelihood of prosthesis erosion and infection, which was believed due to a higher rate of bacterial invasion during the earlier shunt surgeries. Conclusions The majority of current evidence favours early penile prosthesis insertion in term of lower complication rate for IP, especially the intraoperative complication, for IP, compared to the delayed implantation. Nevertheless, better quality evidence is still needed from RCT to determine the exact timing for early implantation, patient selection, and the best penile prosthesis types. Disclosure No.

Risk and benefits of penile length preservation techniques during penile prosthesis implantation: a systematic review by the young academic urologists sexual and reproductive health working group.

Penile shortening, frequently resulting from end-stage Peyronie's disease (PD), has a negative impact on patients' sexual activity and overall quality of life, especially when accompanied by Erectile dysfunction (ED). Various surgical techniques have been described to manage concomitant ED and penile shortening through penile prosthesis (PP) implantation. To evaluate the benefits and risks of different penile length preservation techniques during PP implantation. A systematic review of the available literature on the use of penile length preservation maneuvers in conjunction with PP implantation was conducted. For this systematic review, three databases (Medline, Embase and Cochrane) and clinical trial.gov were queried for relevant publications from 1 January 1990 to 1 September 2022. The review process followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. The qualitative analysis included 15 relevant articles involving 1186 adult patients who underwent penile length preservation techniques during PP implantation. Penile lengthening of 1-7 cm was reported. Overall, postoperative complications were described in up to 21.7% of cases. Only five studies reported functional outcomes, showing a significant improvement in postoperative period based on the administered questionnaire (e.g. IIEF - International Index of Erectile Function, EDITS - Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction). Penile length preservation procedures appear to offer a viable option for managing acquired penile shortening, particularly in cases of PD. However, they are associated with a significant risk of complications. Proper patient selection, thorough discussion of risks and benefits, and referral to high-volume centers are mandatory to achieve optimal outcomes and minimizing complications. PROSPERO database registration CRD42022360758.

Robot assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with maximal urethral length preservation technique preserves penile length.

Penile shortening is a recognized but neglected side effect of prostate cancer treatment. In this study we explore the effect of maximal urethral length preservation (MULP) technique on penile length preservation after robot assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP). In an IRB approved study, we prospectively evaluated the stretched flaccid penile length (SFPL) pre and post RALP in subjects with a diagnosis of prostate cancer. The multiparametric MRI (MP-MRI) was utilized for surgical planning if available preoperatively. Repeated measures t-test, linear regression and 2-way ANOVA analyses were performed. A total of 35 subjects underwent RALP. Mean age was 65.8yr (SD: 5.9), preoperative SFPL was 15.57cm (SD: 1.66) and postoperative SFPL was 15.41cm (SD: 1.61) p = 0.68. No change in the postoperative SFPL was recorded among 27 subjects (77.1%) while 5 subjects (14.3%) had 0.5cm shortening, and 3 subjects (8.6%) had 1cm shortening. Pathologic stage, preoperative MP-MRI and body mass index (BMI) were significant predictors of postoperative SFPL on linear regression analysis, p = 0.001. Among 26 subjects with pathologic stage 2 disease, no statistical difference was seen in repeated measures t-test between pre and postoperative SFPL, 15.36 vs 15.3cm, p = 0.08. All subjects were continent by 6months postoperatively, with no complications. We demonstrate that incorporating MULP technique and preoperative MP-MRI preserves SFPL in subjects undergoing a RALP.

Scrotal approach for tunica expansion procedure (TEP) for penile girth and length restoration during penile prosthesis implantation in patients with penile angulation due to Peyronie's disease and erectile dysfunction: technique and outcomes.

Peyronie's disease is often comorbid with erectile dysfunction and can cause significant penile shortening. We describe our modified tunica expansion procedure (TEP) technique of penile length preservation and girth enhancement with correction of penile angulation in patients with mild Peyronie's disease (<30 degree angulation, or hourglass deformity, no hinging) and erectile dysfunction presenting for inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) surgery. A retrospective review of IPP placement from one high volume surgeon was performed. A total of 474 patients' charts from June 2017 to June 2021 were reviewed and those charts of patients undergoing modified TEP in the setting of Peyronie's disease were analyzed. Average increase in length and girth were measured and means with standard deviations calculated. The modified TEP is performed through a scrotal approach and involves complete eversion of the penis with dissection of Buck's fascia off the underlying tunica. Subsequently, staggered scorings of the underlying tunica are performed allowing for circumferential girth enhancement and length preservation. In men with Peyronie's disease, these scorings are preferentially concentrated on the side of the plaque to allow straightening without loss of length. A total of 32 patients with Peyronie's disease from the larger cohort underwent the modified TEP. Mean increase in length of distal corpora was 2.8 ± 0.8 cm (range 2.0-3.4 cm) (measured using Furlow before and after penile eversion with TEP), while mean increase in girth (measured at midphallus prior to prosthesis insertion and after IPP inflation) was 1.6 ± 0.4 cm (range 1.2-2.2 cm). There were no reported complications. A scrotal approach to TEP is an easy to perform technique that can be used to restore length and enhance girth in men with Peyronie's disease undergoing insertion of IPP. Additionally, it is a customizable approach that can also be used to correct mild penile angulation.

Erectile function after partial penectomy for penile cancer.

ABSTRACTPurpose:To evaluate the erectile function in patients who underwent partial penectomy and identify factors associated with penile functional status.Materials and Methods:We identified patients who underwent partial penectomy due to penile cancer between 2009 and 2014. Clinical and pathological characteristics included patient age at the time of diagnosis, obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, smoking, metabolic syndrome, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) status, penile shaft length, tumor size, primary tumor stage (pT), clinical nodal status, and local recurrence. Erectile function was assessed prospectively with the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) at least 3 months after partial penectomy.Results:A total of 81 patients met analysis criteria. At the diagnosis, the median age was 62 years (range from 30 to 88). Median follow-up was 17 months (IQR 7-36). Of total patients, 37 (45%) had T2 or higher disease. Clinically positive nodes were present in 16 (20%) patients and seven (8.6%) developed local recurrence. Fifty patients (62%) had erectile dysfunction (ED) after partial penectomy, 30% had moderate or severe erectile dysfunction scores. Patients with ED versus without ED were similar in baseline characteristics except for age, penile shaft length, and presence of inguinal adenopathy (p <0.05). Multivariate analysis using logistic regression confirmed that older patients, shorter penile shaft length, and clinically positive lymph node were significantly associated with ED.Conclusion:Partial penectomy due to penile cancer provides adequate local control of the disease, however, proper counselling is important especially in relation to ED consequences. Preservation of penile length yields to more optimal erectile recovery.

Advanced Penile Length Restoration Techniques to Optimize Penile Prosthesis Placement Outcomes.

The most common cause of patient dissatisfaction after penile prosthesis placement is penile shortening compared with one's memory of a natural erection. Surgical techniques as well as preoperative and postoperative protocols have been reported to preserve and possibly enhance penile length in someone undergoing penile prosthesis surgery. This article presents a description of as well as the authors' experience with presurgical protocols, intraoperative techniques, and postsurgical protocols that allow for preservation or enhancement of penile length for patients who undergo inflatable penile prosthesis insertion. An extensive, systematic literature review was performed using PubMed searching for key terms including penile lengthening, inflatablepenile prosthesis, penile girth, buried penis, and penile enhancement. All articles with subjective and/or objective penile length outcomes were reviewed. Several preoperative treatment protocols were found for penile length preservation and enhancement, which included use of a vacuum erection device as well as traction therapy. Intraoperative techniques included cavernosal sparing, channeling without dilatation, circumferential penile degloving, ventral phalloplasty, suprapubic lipectomy, liposuction, suspensory ligament release, sliding technique, modified sliding technique, multislice technique, and aggressive implant sizing. Postoperative protocols included early device inflation and cycling. Table1 summarizes and compares the various preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative strategies identified during literature review with their corresponding reported length gain. Many preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative surgical techniques can be performed by high-volume implanters to improve one's perceived or true penile length. In the hands of experienced, high-volume implanters, these techniques can be very meaningful for patients undergoing penile prosthesis insertion, particularly those who are concerned with penile length. Shah B, Kent M, Valenzuela R. Advanced Penile Length Restoration Techniques to Optimize Penile Prosthesis Placement Outcomes. Sex Med Rev 2021;9:641-649.

New Developments in Surgical Treatment for Penile Size Preservation in Peyronie’s Disease

Peyronie's disease (PD) is associated with penile length loss due to atrophy that occurs as a result of fibrous inelastic scarring. Studies have shown diminished penile length and girth, as well as the inability to participate in sexual activity, can lead to decreased quality of life, emotional challenges, and sexual dissatisfaction in a large percentage of men. To provide a summary of the new developments in the surgical techniques available for the PD patient, with a focus on procedures that provide penile size restoration. A MEDLINE PubMed search was used to identify articles related to surgical treatments for PD, including plication procedures, penile prosthesis placement, and techniques for size restoration. Types of surgical treatments for PD and their outcomes regarding penile length and patient satisfaction. The Nesbit procedure, among other plication procedures, and penile prosthesis placement with modeling or plication are likely to decrease penile length. Although plaque incision with grafting offers restoration of penile length, it carries a risk of postoperative erectile dysfunction (ED). For men with concomitant ED and severe curvature not amenable to prosthesis with modeling or plication, options include grafting, circumferential tunical incisions, subcoronal prosthesis placement, and the sliding technique with its modifications, allowing for management of both PD and ED while restoring penile length. Adjunct procedures, such as ventral phalloplasty and suspensory ligament release, have also been shown to restore length in PD patients. Novel therapies continue to evolve with the goal of preserving length while treating curvature. There are numerous surgical options for correcting penile curvature in PD patients, with or without concomitant ED treatment. When determining the optimal procedure, it is important to consider possible preservation of penile length and to discuss possible complications to increase patient satisfaction and improve quality of life. Barrett-Harlow B, Clavell-Hernandez J, Wang R. New Developments in Surgical Treatment for Penile Size Preservation in Peyronie's Disease. Sex Med Rev 2019;7:156-166.

238 A case series of patients underwent laparoscopic extra-peritoneal radical prostatectomy with simultaneous implant of penile prosthesis: focus on penile length preservation

There are many grey zones in the field of penile rehabilitation after radical prostatectomy. One of the most important aspect for improve the patient’s compliance to the treatment is the preservation of the full dimensions of the penis after surgery. We show the first cases series of patients treated by laparoscopic extra-peritoneal radical prostatectomy (RP) and simultaneous penile prostheses implantation (PPI), in order to preserve the full length of the penis and improve patients' satisfaction. From June 2013 to June 2014, 10 patients underwent simultaneous PPI (AMS “inibizone”), how shown in Figure 1 and RP by the same surgeon at the same Centre. Patients were evaluated with urological visits, dedicated questionnaires and instrumentation before surgery, at the hospital discharge and on day 21-28, each 3 months for the first year and each 6 months after. The main outcome measures were oncological (biochemical recurrence free rate), functional (penile length) and QoL.

A Case Series of Patients Who Underwent Laparoscopic Extraperitoneal Radical Prostatectomy with the Simultaneous Implant of a Penile Prosthesis: Focus on Penile Length Preservation.

PurposeThere are many grey areas in the field of penile rehabilitation after radical prostatectomy (RP). The preservation of the full dimensions of the penis is an important consideration for improving patients' compliance for the treatment. We present the first case series of patients treated by laparoscopic extraperitoneal RP and simultaneous penile prosthesis implantation (PPI) in order to preserve the full length of the penis and to improve patients' satisfaction.Materials and MethodsFrom June 2013 to June 2014, 10 patients underwent simultaneous PPI (with an AMS InhibiZone prosthesis) and RP. Patients were evaluated by means of urological visits, questionnaires, and objective measurements before surgery, at discharge from the hospital, on postoperative days 21 to 28, each 3 months for the first year, and each 6 months thereafter. The main outcome measures were biochemical recurrence-free rate, penile length, and quality of life.ResultsTen patients (mean age of 61 years; completed the study follow-up period (median, 32.2 months). No difference was found between the time of surgery and the 2-year follow-up evaluation in terms of penile length. The pre-surgery 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) median score was 97. Patients were satisfied with their penile implants, and couples' level of sexual satisfaction was rated median 8. The median postoperative SF-36 score was 99 at 3 months follow-up.ConclusionsLaparoscopic extraperitoneal RP surgery with simultaneous PPI placement seems to be an interesting possibility to propose to motivated patients for preserving the length of the penis and improving their satisfaction.

The management of the acute ischemic priapism: A state of the art review

ObjectiveTo review the current literature on early penile prosthesis implantation in patients with refractory ischemic priapism (IP). Acquisition of evidenceA systematic search for the terms “penile prosthesis”, “priapism”, “impotence”, “fibrosis”, “downsized prosthesis cylinders”, and “patient satisfaction” has been carried out in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, SCOPUS and Science Citation Index databases. Synthesis of evidenceCavernosal tissue damage in IP is time related. Conservative measures and aspiration with or without intracorporeal instillation of α-adrenergic agonists are usually successful in the early stages. Shunt surgery in patients remains debatable, as the lack of response to aspiration and instillation of α-adrenergic agonists indicates that irreversible changes in the cavernosal smooth muscle are likely to have already occurred. Immediate penile prosthesis implantation in patients with refractory IP settles the priapic episode, maintains the long term rigidity necessary to engage in penetrative sexual intercourse and prevents the otherwise inevitable penile shortening.Although complication rates after penile prosthesis implantation in acute priapism are higher than in virgin cases, they are still lower than after implantation in patients with severe corporal fibrosis due to chronic priapism. Regardless of the complication rates, penile prosthesis implantation in refractory IP should be preferred as it allows the preservation of penile length, which is one of the main factors influencing postoperative patient's satisfaction following surgery.

Penile Prosthesis Implantation in Priapism.

Priapism is defined as a full or partial erection lasting longer than 4 hours after sexual stimulation and orgasm or unrelated to sexual stimulation. The main goal of priapism management is to resolve the episode immediately to preserve erectile function and penile length. Corporal smooth muscle necrosis is likely to have already occurred, and medically refractory erectile dysfunction is expected in patients with a protracted episode. Penile prosthesis implantation (PPI) in the early or late phase of priapism can restore erectile function. To review the literature on PPI in priapism. A PubMed search of all English-language articles published before 2017 was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement using the following search terms: penile prosthesis implantation, priapism, and corporal fibrosis. All publications reporting on PPI during or after priapism episodes were included for review. Three types of priapism were reviewed for management using PPI. Surgical techniques, outcomes, and patient satisfaction were reported. Early implantation (during the episode) is technically easier and has lower complication rates compared with delayed (electively, after the erectile dysfunction is observed) surgery. Immediate PPI also allows preservation of penile length, which is related to higher satisfaction rates. The paradigm is shifting toward immediate PPI in the management of ischemic priapism. Patients with non-ischemic priapism or recurrent priapism, even without a major ischemic episode, are at high risk for erectile dysfunction and are candidates for PPI. Yücel ÖB, Pazır Y, Kadıoğlu A. Penile Prosthesis Implantation in Priapism. Sex Med Rev 2018;6:310-318.

El manejo del priapismo isquémico agudo: una revisión actualizada

ObjectiveTo review the current literature on early penile prosthesis implantation in patients with refractory ischemic priapism (IP). Acquisition of evidenceA systematic search for the terms “penile prosthesis”, “priapism”, “impotence”, “fibrosis”, “downsized prosthesis cylinders”, and “patient satisfaction” has been carried out in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, SCOPUS and Science Citation Index databases. Synthesis of evidenceCavernosal tissue damage in IP is time related. Conservative measures and aspiration with or without intracorporeal instillation of α-adrenergic agonists are usually successful in the early stages. Shunt surgery in patients remains debatable, as the lack of response to aspiration and instillation of α-adrenergic agonists indicates that irreversible changes in the cavernosal smooth muscle are likely to have already occurred. Immediate penile prosthesis implantation in patients with refractory IP settles the priapic episode, maintains the long term rigidity necessary to engage in penetrative sexual intercourse and prevents the otherwise inevitable penile shortening.Although complication rates after penile prosthesis implantation in acute priapism are higher than in virgin cases, they are still lower than after implantation in patients with severe corporal fibrosis due to chronic priapism. Regardless of the complication rates, penile prosthesis implantation in refractory IP should be preferred as it allows the preservation of penile length, which is one of the main factors influencing postoperative patient's satisfaction following surgery.

Penile Lengthening, Girth, and Size Preservation at the Time of Penile Prosthesis Insertion.

Penile prosthetic devices are the gold standard treatment of medication-refractory erectile dysfunction. Inflatable penile prosthetic (IPP) devices have been available and used for more than four decades. Oftentimes, medical conditions causing erectile dysfunction also cause penile shortening, causing decreased patient quality of life. To identify and review all available penile lengthening procedures that can be performed at time of IPP insertion. An extensive, systematic literature review was performed using PubMed searching for key terms penile lengthening, inflatable penile prosthesis, penile girth, corporoplasty, glans augmentation, and penile enhancement; all articles with subjective and/or objective penile length outcomes were reviewed. A review of various techniques for penile length and girth preservation and enhancement during penile prosthesis insertion. Several advanced and novel techniques were found for penile length preservation and enhancement at time of IPP insertion, including the sub-coronal IPP insertion technique, and adjuvant maneuvers during insertion, such as the sliding technique, modified sliding technique, multiple slice technique, and circumferential incision and grafting. Other adjuvant techniques that can enhance perception of increased length include ventral phalloplasty, suprapubic lipectomy, and suspensory ligament release. Further enhancement can be obtained using augmentation corporoplasty and glans augmentation with hyaluronic acid and other fillers. The different techniques vary in complexity and could require specialized training and experience. Maximum length gain appears to be limited by the length of the neurovascular bundles. Overall, surgical penile lengthening procedures at time of IPP insertion appear safe and effective for treatment of patients with penile shortening and severe erectile dysfunction. These therapies can significantly improve patient self-esteem and quality of life in properly selected patients. Tran H, Goldfarb R, Ackerman A, Valenxuela RJ. Penile Lengthening, Girth and Size Preservation at the Time of Penile Prosthesis Insertion. Sex Med Rev 2017;5:403-412.

Implantation of AMS 700 LGX penile prosthesis preserves penile length without the need for penile lengthening procedures.

Implantation of an inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) is a well-established definitive solution for erectile dysfunction when conservative treatments fail. Penile implants may shorten the penis. The AMS 700 LGX IPP is in common use but reports on its mechanical reliability, medium-term postsurgical patient satisfaction, and mean penile length preservation are lacking. We investigate the mean penile length, mechanical reliability, and patient satisfaction at 6 and 12 months after implantation of the AMS 700 LGX. This prospective study consecutively enrolled men undergoing first-time IPP implant surgery from February 2009 to April 2012. Stretched flaccid penile length, penile length at 50% and 100% of stiffness (P50 and P100) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS) scores, were measured at 6 and 12 months postsurgery. Of 45 patients who underwent AMS 700 LGX implantation (median age 61 years) and completed 6 months’ follow-up, 36 (80%) completed the study. A significant difference in stretched flaccid penile length was seen between 6 and 12 months (P = 0.033). P100 was also significantly increased at 6 and 12 months, with a mean 10% increase (1.3 ± 0.4 cm) from baseline to 12 months. Differences in mean IIEF scores at 6 and 12 months were significant for the desired domain (P = 0.0001) and for overall satisfaction (P = 0.002); however, mean EDITS scores at 6 and 12 months were not significantly improved. AMS 700 LGX is a powerful tool for preserving penile length in men undergoing penile prosthesis implantation.

The foreskin advancement flap: An alternative technique for reconstruction of penile burns

Penile burns are devastating injuries and are frequently associated with significant functional and psychological sequelae. The goals of penile reconstruction after burn injury include: 1) skin coverage, 2) preservation of penile length, sensation and erectile function, 3) esthetic integrity, and 4) permissive for penile growth in the pediatric patient. A multitude of different techniques have been proposed, including skin grafts, local, regional, and free flaps, each of which fail to address all goals of reconstruction. We introduce the foreskin advancement flap that, when available, successfully addresses these key challenges and as such provides for an ideal reconstruction.

Vacuum Erection Devices Revisited: Its Emerging Role in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction and Early Penile Rehabilitation Following Prostate Cancer Therapy

Vacuum erection devices (VEDs) are becoming first-line therapies for the treatment of erectile dysfunction and preservation (rehabilitation) of erectile function following treatment for prostate cancer. Currently, there is limited efficacy of the use of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors in elderly patients, or patients with moderate to severe diabetes, hypertension, and coronary artery disease. The article aims to study the role of VED in patients following prostate cancer therapy. Alternative therapies such as VED have emerged as one of the primary options for patients refractory to oral therapy. VED has also been successfully used in combination treatment with oral therapy and penile injections. More recently, there has been interest in the use of VED in early intervention protocols to encourage corporeal rehabilitation and prevention of postradical prostatectomy veno-occlusive dysfunction. This is evident by the preservation of penile length and girth that is seen with early use of the VED following radical prostatectomy. There are ongoing studies to help preserve penile length and girth with early use of VED following prostate brachytherapy and external beam radiation for prostate cancer. Recently, there has also been interest in the use of VED to help maintain penile length following surgical correction of Peyronie's disease and to increase penile size prior to implantation of the penile prosthesis. VEDs can be one of the options for penile rehabilitation after prostate cancer therapy.

Traction Therapy for Men with Shortened Penis Prior to Penile Prosthesis Implantation: A Pilot Study

Loss of penile length after penile prosthesis implantation is one of the most common complaints. There is no recognized reliable technique to gain length once the device is placed. This noncontrolled pilot study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of external penile traction therapy in men with a shortened penis used before inflatable prosthesis implantation. Ten men with drug refractory erectile dysfunction and a complaint of a shorter penis as a result of radical prostatectomy in four, prior prosthesis explantation in four, and Peyronie's disease in two were entered into this trial. External penile traction was applied for 2-4 hours daily for 2-4 months prior to prosthesis surgery. Baseline stretched penile length (SPL) was compared with post-traction SPL and postimplant inflated erect length. A non-validated questionnaire assessed patient satisfaction. All men completed the protocol. Daily average device use was 2-4 hours and for up to 4 months. No man had measured or perceived length loss after inflatable penile prosthesis placement. Seventy percent had measured erect length gain compared with baseline pre-traction SPL up to 1.5 cm. There were no adverse events. External traction therapy appears to result in a preservation of penile length, as no man had measured or perceived length loss following prosthesis placement, but in fact, a small length gain was noted in 70% of the subjects with no adverse events. The protocol is tedious and requires compliance to be effective. External traction therapy prior to inflatable penile prosthesis placement appears to preserve and possibly result in increased post-prosthesis implant erect length.

Medium-term follow-up of plaque incision and porcine small intestinal submucosal grafting for Peyronie's disease

The best surgical option for the management of severe cases of Peyronie's disease is currently a matter of debate. To determine medium-term outcomes and complications after treatment of severe Peyronie's disease by porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS) grafts, we retrospectively reviewed 33 consecutive plaque incisions followed by 4-ply SIS grafting in 28 patients (2002-2009). Postoperative complications, penile length preservation, de novo ED, penile curvature correction and curvature recurrence rates were recorded. Median patient age was 54 years (38-69 years). Median preoperative curvature was 90° (30-90°) (stable for at least 6 months). Six patients (21%) had preoperative ED. There were few postoperative complications (no cases of infection, haematoma (n=2), penile hypoesthesia (n=1), patch rejection and migration (n=1)). Subjective penile shortening and de novo ED were observed in 7 (25%) and 3 (11%) patients, respectively. The success rate for the procedure (straight penis or curvature ≤20° and ability to have intercourse) was 67% (22/33). Four patients achieved curvature correction after a repeat procedure with a new SIS graft. Eleven patients experienced recurrence within 3 months of surgery. After a median follow-up of 9 months (3-94), 22 patients (79%) had a satisfactory curvature correction.

Vacuum erection devices to treat erectile dysfunction and early penile rehabilitation following radical prostatectomy

Vacuum erection devices (VED) are becoming first-line therapies for erectile dysfunction and preservation (rehabilitation) of erectile function following treatment for prostate cancer. Currently, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors have limited efficacy in elderly patients or patients with moderate to severe diabetes, hypertension, and coronary artery disease. Alternative therapies, such as VED, have emerged as a primary option for patients refractory to oral therapy. VED has also been successfully used in combination treatment with oral therapy and penile injections. More recently, there has been interest in the use of VED in early intervention protocols to encourage corporeal rehabilitation and prevention of post-radical prostatectomy venoocclusive dysfunction. This is evident by the preservation of penile length and girth seen with the early use of the VED following radical prostatectomy. There are ongoing studies to help preserve penile length and girth with early use of VED following prostate brachytherapy and external beam radiation for prostate cancer. Recently, there has also been interest in VED to help maintain penile length following surgical correction of Peyronie's disease and to increase penile size before implantation of the penile prosthesis.