Contemporary Patient Satisfaction Rates for Three-Piece Inflatable Penile Prostheses

Among the many treatments for erectile dysfunction, implantation of a penile prosthesis has been associated with high patient satisfaction rates. Specifically, the placement of a three-piece inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) confers the highest rates of satisfaction. We reviewed the literature over the past 20 years regarding satisfaction rates for penile prostheses, with a focus on patients who had undergone an initial IPP implantation for erectile dysfunction. In all, 194 articles were reviewed, and of these, nine met inclusion criteria for analysis and data collation. We determined contemporary satisfaction rates to reflect patients’ experiences with newer products and surgical approaches. Of importance, we noted that varied metrics were used to determine patient satisfaction, and overall satisfaction could not be precisely determined. Nevertheless, we found that patients in general were quite satisfied with their three-piece IPPs and restoration of sexual function. We also identified reasons for patient dissatisfaction and reviewed the literature to find ways by which satisfaction could be improved. Given the various means by which patient satisfaction was determined, future efforts should include standardized and validated questionnaires. 1. Introduction The placement of a patient-activated inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) to treat erectile dysfunction has allowed patients to achieve dependable spontaneity for intercourse. As compared with other treatments for erectile dysfunction, including oral medication, transurethral suppositories, injectable medications, and vacuum-assisted devices, patients who have a penile prosthesis have reported the highest satisfaction rates [1–4]. Early satisfaction rates had been determined by physicians’ assessments. However, discrepancy has been shown between satisfaction rates determined by physicians and those determined by patients [5]. It is generally thought that patient self-administered questionnaires are more reliable than those administered by a physician. As such, over the past several years, penile prosthesis satisfaction rates have been captured by self-administered surveys. However, relatively few studies have been conducted utilizing validated surveys. Early satisfaction rates for penile prosthetic implants do not reflect contemporary device improvements or surgical technique. Indeed, over the years, device manufacturers have modified their penile prostheses to improve device satisfaction and longevity rates. Having evolved from malleable and two-piece penile implants, the three-piece inflatable