Rigi10™ Malleable Penile Prosthesis
Detailed Answer
Penile implants represent a definitive surgical treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED), typically recommended when less invasive options such as oral medications are ineffective or unsuitable. There are two main types of penile implants: inflatable (two- and three-piece) and semi-rigid (malleable, mechanical and soft flexible) devices. Both work mechanically to create an erection, bypassing the vascular pathways typically stimulated by oral ED medications.
Since penile implants achieve rigidity through physical mechanisms—either by pumping fluid into inflatable cylinders or manually positioning malleable rods—there is no physiological need for enhanced blood flow to the penis. As a result, oral ED medications (phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, PDE5Is) are generally not indicated in men with a properly functioning penile prosthesis.
Clinical guidelines clearly define penile prosthesis implantation as a treatment option for patients who are not suitable for different pharmacotherapies or prefer a definitive therapy, and for those who do not respond to other treatment modalities. Consequently, individuals undergoing this surgery usually discontinue oral ED medications. Postoperative care emphasizes recovery, device functionality, and patient satisfaction, rather than pharmacological intervention.
Current EAU clinical guidelines do not specifically address or recommend the concurrent use of oral ED medications with penile implants for erectile dysfunction. The guidelines focus on penile prosthesis as an option when other treatments have failed or are unsuitable, with emphasis on proper patient selection, surgical techniques, and complication management rather than adjunctive medication use.
In specialized clinical contexts not specifically addressed in the EAU guidelines, healthcare providers might consider individualized approaches to patient management. However, the EAU guidelines do not provide evidence-based recommendations for combining oral ED medications with functional penile implants.
Always consult your urologist before considering any medications after penile implant surgery. Unnecessary use of medications may expose you to side effects or health risks, including headaches, flushing, or cardiovascular stress.
From the Guidelines
"The surgical implantation of a penile prosthesis may be considered in patients who i) are not suitable for different pharmacotherapies or prefer a definitive therapy; and, ii) do not respond to other treatment modalities."