Malleable Penile Implant in Turkey

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can significantly impact a man’s quality of life. While various treatments are available, penile implants have emerged as a reliable and last after considering the “Non-surgical treatment methods” solution. 

Among these, the Malleable Penile Implant, also known as the Semi-Rigid Penile Implant, stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness. This article explores the workings of the Malleable Penile Implant and its suitability for certain individuals.

Understanding Malleable Penile Implant

A Malleable Penile Implant consists of a pair of bendable rods that are surgically inserted into the erection chambers of the penis. Once implanted, these rods maintain a semi-rigid state, allowing the penis to be easily positioned for intercourse and then back towards the body for concealment.

| Read More: Erectile Dysfunction Treatment in Turkey

How It Works

The key feature of the Malleable Penile Implant is its simplicity. Unlike Three-piece implants, which involve a pump and reservoir, the Malleable Penile Implant works through manual adjustment. 

The patient can bend the penis into an erect position for sexual activity and back down when not in use. This design makes it particularly suitable for men who desire a less complex or more spontaneous solution to ED.

When should I choose the Malleable Penile Prosthesis?

Choosing a malleable penile implant is often considered when other methods to restore erectile function have been unsuccessful or deemed unsuitable. This type of prosthesis is particularly relevant in certain situations:

• After Exhausting Other Options: It’s typically recommended for patients who have tried various other erectile dysfunction treatments without success or satisfaction.
• Specific Medical Conditions: The malleable Penile implant is also beneficial for patients suffering from conditions like Peyronie’s disease, priapism, or incontinence, where other treatments might not be effective or feasible.
• Ease of Use: A significant advantage of the malleable prosthesis is its simplicity. It allows for a firm erection without the need for a pump or reservoir, making it easier to use, especially for individuals with limited manual dexterity.
• Maintaining Sexual Activity: The implant enables patients to maintain an active sex life by providing a consistent and reliable means to achieve an erection.

The Malleable penile implant offers a practical solution for individuals seeking a straightforward and effective way to manage erectile dysfunction, especially when other treatments have not been effective or are not appropriate due to specific medical conditions.

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Limitations of a Malleable Penile Prosthesis

While a malleable penile prosthesis offers a solution for erectile dysfunction, it’s important to understand its limitations:

• No Increase in Penile Length: The malleable prosthesis does not add extra length to the penis. It also cannot restore length that may have been lost due to prolonged erectile dysfunction or following a radical prostatectomy.
• Lack of Tissue Swelling: Unlike other treatments like vacuum devices, urethral pellets, penile injections, and creams, a malleable penile prosthesis does not cause swelling of the penile tissues. It simply provides rigidity.
• Irreversible Procedure: The insertion of a malleable penile prosthesis is a non-reversible procedure. This is because the erectile tissue of the penis needs to be removed or altered to create space for the implantation of the malleable rods.

It’s crucial for individuals considering this option to have a clear understanding of these limitations. The decision to proceed with a malleable penile prosthesis should be made after thorough discussion with a healthcare provider, considering all aspects of the procedure and its outcomes.

Advantages of Malleable Penile Implant

One of the primary benefits of the Malleable Penile Implant is the reduced number of foreign objects in the body. 

This can be an important consideration for individuals concerned about complications or infections associated with some patients with advanced health issues. Additionally, the implant offers a permanent solution to ED, with a lower risk of mechanical failure due to its simplicity.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery:

Before Malleable Penile Implant Surgery:

Approximately two weeks before your surgery, you’ll need to contact us at the clinic for pre-operative clerking. A member of the Istanbul Urology Clinic family will review your readiness for surgery during this contact. 

This includes asking for blood tests and examining your chest, heart, and abdomen. They’ll inquire about your overall health, any past illnesses, and medications you’re currently taking. 

This is also a good time for you to voice any questions or concerns. The pre-assessment team may ask you to do a urine check for urinary tract infections and swab your nose, mouth, and groin to ensure you’re free from infections before your surgery.

For diabetic patients, it’s crucial to manage your diabetes effectively before surgery to minimize infection risks and promote quicker recovery.

Before the operation, you’ll be instructed to fast, avoiding food and drink, including chewing gum, for about 4-6 hours beforehand. However, you can drink water up to 2 hours before the surgery.

On the day of your operation, you’ll be admitted to the hospital and introduced to the staff who will care for you. They’ll help you get acquainted with the ward and its facilities. Additionally, you’ll be asked to give some blood, get to know all the details related to the history of the patient, and do an x-ray image to be sure that everything is okay for the operation.

During Surgery

During the surgery, you’ll receive either a general or spinal anesthetic. With a general anesthetic, you will be completely asleep throughout the procedure. If a spinal anesthetic is used, it involves an injection in the lower part of your back, rendering the lower half of your body numb for the duration of the operation.

The surgical area, specifically your scrotum and its vicinity, will be prepared by shaving. The surgeon will make an incision either in the scrotum, just below the penis. This is to facilitate the insertion of two malleable cylinders.

A catheter, which is a plastic tube, will be inserted into the urinary tract to drain urine from your bladder. This means you won’t have to use the toilet immediately following the surgery.

After the procedure, your penis will be securely wrapped in bandages. This helps to minimize bleeding and aid in the initial healing process.

After Your Surgery

Once your penile implant surgery is completed, you’ll be taken from the operating theater to the recovery area. Here, the medical team will closely monitor your condition to ensure stability before transferring you back to your ward. Upon returning to the ward, you’ll be able to eat and drink.

To manage any discomfort, painkillers will be provided regularly. You’ll be encouraged to get up and move around the ward as soon as you feel up to it, which aids in your recovery.

The following day, usually between 8:00 am and 10:00 am, the medical team will conduct a ward round to check on your progress and address any immediate concerns. During this time, they may remove your dressings and catheter.

Most patients typically spend one night in the hospital. However, if there are any complications or concerns regarding your recovery, the medical team might recommend an extended stay to ensure your safety and the success of your operation.

Upon discharge, you’ll receive specific instructions regarding the care of your penis. This includes avoiding bending it strongly and keeping it in an upright position, preferably against your abdomen, for the first two weeks post-surgery. 

This position helps reduce swelling and promotes healing. You’ll be scheduled for a follow-up appointment with the surgical team in a few days after your surgery to review your recovery progress.

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Risks of Malleable Penile Prosthesis Insertion

While most patients undergoing this surgery don’t face issues, there are potential complications to be aware of:

Infection: 

There’s about a 1% chance of infection, but this risk increases in certain conditions like diabetes or during prosthesis replacement, rising to 10%. If the penile prosthesis gets infected, removal is necessary.

Discomfort: 

Initially, post-surgery discomfort is typically minimal due to local anesthesia, lasting for about 10-12 hours. After this, as the implant stretches the penis internally, the discomfort usually goes away slowly in a few days after the surgery.

The medical team will provide advice on managing this. In rare cases, discomfort lasting beyond 3 weeks may occur, in that case, there will be a need to do further testing to see what could be the problem and fix it, the chances of this happening is less than 1% of the cases.

Once Discharged Home:

Managing Pain

After your surgery, it’s common to experience some discomfort, which can occasionally be quite intense and may last for up to 5 weeks. This is a normal part of the healing process. 

While at home, make sure to take the painkillers that were provided to you by The surgeon. It’s crucial to follow the dosage instructions precisely and not to exceed the recommended dose.

To help alleviate discomfort, consider wearing supportive underwear. This can help by minimizing movement of the penis, thus reducing pain and aiding in the recovery process.

Wound Care Instructions

It’s important to maintain the cleanliness and dryness of your wound.

You may shower on the evening of the day following your surgery, but it’s recommended to avoid prolonged soaking until your wound has fully healed. Be cautious to prevent soap from contacting the wound as it might cause irritation. Nonetheless, keeping the head of the penis and the area under the foreskin clean is essential.

In case the wound becomes wet, gently pat it dry using gauze, but refrain from rubbing.

Ensure your hands are thoroughly washed before touching the wound.

Antibiotic Guidance

Post-operation, you will receive a course of antibiotics to take home, aimed at minimizing infection risks. It’s crucial to complete the full course as prescribed, ensuring not to skip any doses.

Stitch

The stitches applied during your surgery are self-dissolving and do not require removal. They may take approximately 6-8 weeks to fully dissolve

Work-Related Advice

An estimated two weeks off work is recommended for recovery. However, if your job involves exposure to dirty environments or manual labor, consider extending your leave up to six weeks to decrease the likelihood of complications. We can issue a sick certificate if needed. Remember, you can self-certify for the initial week. It’s advisable to refrain from heavy lifting for a minimum of two weeks.

Psychological Impact and Quality of Life Improvement: 

Erectile dysfunction (ED) profoundly affects psychological well-being and quality of life. The Malleable Penile Implant, a simpler alternative to inflatable implants, plays a pivotal role in restoring not just sexual function, but also self-esteem and confidence. It’s particularly beneficial for those seeking a straightforward solution.

This implant empowers individuals to regain a significant part of their intimate lives, leading to improved mental health and relationship satisfaction. The choice between a Malleable and an Inflatable Penile Implant should consider personal needs, lifestyle, and the psychological impact of each option. 

Our clinic provides comprehensive guidance to ensure each patient finds the solution best suited to their overall well-being, enhancing both their physical and emotional quality of life.

Ideal Candidates for Malleable Penile Implant

Malleable Penile implants are especially beneficial for men who may find the operation of inflatable implants challenging, such as those with limited dexterity due to conditions like arthritis.

It’s also a suitable option for men looking for a more straightforward, low-maintenance, and low-cost solution.

Compared with Inflatable Penile Implant

While Malleable Implants offer simplicity, Inflatable Penile Implant, specifically the three-piece implant, provides a more natural experience. The Three-Pieces Implant consists of a fluid reservoir, a pump, and cylinders within the penis. 

It allows more control over the timing and duration of an erection, closely mimicking the natural process of getting an erection. As well as the ability to add more size in length and girth with the “extendable three-piece implant”

Preference for Younger Patients

For younger patients, the preference often leans towards the Three-piece inflatable Implant. This preference is due to the more natural ability to control the erection that it offers, which can be a significant factor in the sexual experience and overall satisfaction. 

The Three-Pieces Implant’s design also means the penis can be in a more natural, flaccid state when not in use, which is a desirable feature for many.

| Read More: Inflatable Penile Implant in Turkey: A Lifetime Solution 

Conclusion

The Malleable Penile Implant offers a dependable and less complex solution for those battling erectile dysfunction. While it provides numerous benefits, particularly for certain individuals, the choice between a Malleable and an Inflatable Penile Implant ultimately depends on personal needs, lifestyle, and preferences. 

At Istanbul Urology Clinic, we ensure that each patient receives comprehensive advice and guidance to choose the implant best suited for them.

Takeaway

If you are considering a penile implant, we invite you to discuss your options with our specialists At Istanbul Urology Clinic. Whether it’s the straightforward Malleable Implant or the more natural-feeling three-piece implant, we are here to help you regain confidence and enhance your quality of life.