Treatment of Penile Prosthesis Implant's Infection

Abstract

Introduction: Penile prosthesis implant is a safe and effective option in erectile dysfunction patients, being implant procedures safe with a low risk of infection. However, when infection occurs, it represents a concrete problem for both surgeon and patient.

Methods: This is a comprehensive review of all issues relating to prosthesis infection, including causes and risk factors, methods of prevention, and management. We analyzed all preoperative and perioperative factors, which can play a role in infection of the device.

Results: Infection of penile prosthesis implant is hard to manage and correct. While the incidence of infection following first implant is up to 3%, in cases of re-implant surgery, the rate can reach as high as 18%. Many articles were found addressing prevention and treatment of penile prosthesis infection, and many analyzed all relevant pre- and perioperative factors associated with penile prosthesis implant. Although such factors have been well studied, there is no clear consensus worldwide on certain topics.

Conclusions: Penile prosthesis implant is a safe and effective option. Despite infection is a rare event, surgeons should follow strictly pre-, intra- and postoperative recommendations in order to reduce the risk of device's infection. An appropriate antibiotic therapy should be tailored on patient's characteristics and pathogens isolated.

Keywords: Infection; Penile prosthesis implant; Prosthesis explant; Prosthesis infection; Treatment infection.