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Translational Andrology and Urology Apr 2024Penile prosthetic devices are the standard treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) after failure of maximum medical therapy and conservative options. Several penile... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Penile prosthetic devices are the standard treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) after failure of maximum medical therapy and conservative options. Several penile lengthening procedures (PLPs) can be performed concurrently with penile prosthesis (PP) insertion in patients with severe ED, penile shortening, and/or Peyronie's disease to help combat negative emotional and psychological concerns from penile length loss with penile prosthetic device placement.
METHODS
An extensive, systematic literature review of the various pre-, intra-, and post-operative techniques that can be applied to preserve, restore or enhance penile length at the time of penile prosthetic implantation.
RESULTS
Numerous pre-operative and post-operative inflation protocols exists with vacuum erection devices and penile traction therapy. Intraoperative surgical techniques include cavernosal sparing and channeling without dilatation, subcoronal incision with circumferential penile degloving and grafting, the sliding technique, the modified sliding technique, the multiple-slit technique, the tunical expansion procedure (TEP), modified TEP, and the auxetic expansion procedure. These approaches can be meaningful to restore and/or preserve length for patients undergoing PP insertion.
CONCLUSIONS
PLPs can be performed by surgeons who have extensive penile reconstruction experience and have been trained to do these procedures, as there is significant risk to the patient and limitations to what can be expected. Each patient must be counseled in detail about the risks and benefits of these procedures and have their expectations managed as the average postoperative penile length recovery is around 3 cm and can range from 0-4.0 cm. Future research is needed to identify the appropriate candidate for each approach, and how much length gain the patient can expect.
PubMed: 38721300
DOI: 10.21037/tau-23-354 -
Translational Andrology and Urology Apr 2024Priapism is a rare condition characterized by persistent erection of the penis that lasts more than 4 hours in the absence of sexual stimulation and is associated with... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Priapism is a rare condition characterized by persistent erection of the penis that lasts more than 4 hours in the absence of sexual stimulation and is associated with significant morbidity and complications, including erectile dysfunction and penile fibrosis. Surgical management of priapism can be extremely challenging. We herein provide a comprehensive review that aims to evaluate the role of penile prosthesis (PP) implantation in the management of priapism.
METHODS
A systematic literature search was performed using the following databases: PubMed, Embase, and Scopus to identify studies that evaluated the effectiveness of PP implantation in treating priapism and the long-term complications, outcomes, and patients' satisfaction rate.
RESULTS
Out of 717 English-language studies published between 2002 and 2022, 17 were chosen for this review. Majority of patients had a malleable PP (MPP) implant, either early or delayed after the priapism episode. Early placement (EP) of PP is widely defined between studies ranging from less than 72 hours, within 1 week, and within 3 weeks. Most common causes of priapism were sickle cell anemia (SCA), medication-induced, and idiopathic. Studies show a higher satisfaction rate ranging between 80% and 100%, with sexual intercourse achievement ranging between 64.2% and 100%. Based on the GRADE system, included studies rated as very low quality of evidence. Commonly reported complications that arise after PP procedures, include device infection, erosion, curvature, and mechanical malfunction, such as auto-inflation.
CONCLUSIONS
PP can be an effective treatment option for priapism, particularly in cases of ischemic priapism lasting more than 36 hours or recurrent priapism that is medically refractory. However, due to the very low quality of evidence, larger, well-designed studies are warranted where long-term outcomes, patients' satisfaction, and complications following priapism-related PP implantation are measured as endpoints.
PubMed: 38721288
DOI: 10.21037/tau-23-224 -
Nature Reviews. Urology Jun 2024
Topics: Humans; Male; Defibrillators, Implantable; Erectile Dysfunction; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Female; Penile Erection
PubMed: 38719915
DOI: 10.1038/s41585-024-00890-y -
Life Sciences Jul 2024Increased corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) apoptosis in the penis due to cavernous nerve injury (CNI) is a crucial contributor to erectile dysfunction...
Caveolin-1 scaffolding domain-derived peptide enhances erectile function by regulating oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells in rats with cavernous nerve injury.
AIM
Increased corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) apoptosis in the penis due to cavernous nerve injury (CNI) is a crucial contributor to erectile dysfunction (ED). Caveolin-1 scaffolding domain (CSD)-derived peptide has been found to exert potential antiapoptotic properties. However, whether CSD peptide can alleviate CCSMCs apoptosis and ED in CNI rats remains unknown. The study aimed to determine whether CSD peptide can improve bilateral CNI-induced ED (BCNI-ED) by enhancing the antiapoptotic processes of CCSMCs.
MAIN METHODS
Fifteen 10-week-old male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly classified into three groups: sham surgery (Sham) group and BCNI groups that underwent saline or CSD peptide treatment respectively. At 3 weeks postoperatively, erectile function was assessed and the penis tissue was histologically examined. Furthermore, an in vitro model of CCSMCs apoptosis was established using transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) to investigate the mechanism of CSD peptide in treating BCNI-ED.
KEY FINDINGS
In BCNI rats, CSD peptide significantly prevented ED and decreased oxidative stress, the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and the levels of caspase3. TGF-β1-treated CCSMCs exhibited severe oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis. However, CSD peptide partially reversed these alterations.
SIGNIFICANCE
Exogenous CSD peptide could improve BCNI-ED by inhibiting oxidative stress, the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and caspase3 expression in penile tissue. The underlying mechanism might involve the regulatory effects of CSD peptide on oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis of CCSMCs following CNI. This study highlights CSD peptide as an effective therapy for post-radical prostatectomy ED (pRP-ED).
Topics: Animals; Male; Apoptosis; Oxidative Stress; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Rats; Erectile Dysfunction; Penis; Caveolin 1; Mitochondria; Penile Erection; Myocytes, Smooth Muscle; Peptides
PubMed: 38718855
DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122694 -
Archivos Espanoles de Urologia Apr 2024Plaque incision and grafting (PEG) is a primary surgical therapy for severe penile curvature in Peyronie's disease (PD); However, it can increase the risk of erectile... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
BACKGROUND
Plaque incision and grafting (PEG) is a primary surgical therapy for severe penile curvature in Peyronie's disease (PD); However, it can increase the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED), particularly in patients with pre-operative mild ED. Soft penile prosthesis (SPP) implantation is a viable treatment option in such cases. This study aims to compare the outcomes of PEG-only approach to PEG plus SPP implantation.
METHODS
Between 2010 and 2019, 32 patients with PD and mild ED (5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function scores: 17-21) underwent PEG surgery. Two groups were defined based on the surgery type: PEG-only and PEG plus SPP. The long-term outcomes included correction of penile bending, erection quality, intercourse ability, penile length and sensitivity. The overall satisfaction and impact of surgery on sexual activity and quality of life were also assessed.
RESULTS
Of the 32 patients, 13 (40.6%) underwent PEG-only surgery, whereas 19 (59.4%) underwent PEG plus SPP. No significant differences were noted between the groups regarding pre-operative characteristics (all > 0.1) or intra- and post-operative complication rates (all > 0.2). The median patch area was larger in the PEG-only group (28 cm vs. 16.2 cm; = 0.001), whereas patients in the PEG plus SPP group were more likely to receive a single patch implant (100% vs. 53.8%; < 0.001). The penile length increased in 18 patients (61.6%), with significant differences between the two groups (30% vs. 81.2%; = 0.03). Overall, 14 patients (53.8%) reported greater satisfaction with their sexual life post-operatively, with comparable rates between the groups ( = 0.2). No significant differences were found in the post-operative 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function scores or severe post-operative ED (all > 0.5).
CONCLUSIONS
SPP placement during corporoplasty in patients with mild ED is safe and feasible, and it may be a suitable option for patients uncertain about inflatable prosthesis placement. The use of SPP resulted in longer penile lengths and necessitated smaller grafts. However, further data are required to understand the long-term clinical implications of this approach.
Topics: Humans; Male; Penile Induration; Erectile Dysfunction; Penile Prosthesis; Middle Aged; Penile Implantation; Prosthesis Design; Severity of Illness Index; Retrospective Studies; Adult; Urologic Surgical Procedures, Male; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 38715168
DOI: 10.56434/j.arch.esp.urol.20247703.36 -
Archivio Italiano Di Urologia,... May 2024The erectile dysfunction (ED), which is the inability to achieve and/or sustain a penile erection sufficient to result in a satisfying sexual performance, represents a...
BACKGROUND
The erectile dysfunction (ED), which is the inability to achieve and/or sustain a penile erection sufficient to result in a satisfying sexual performance, represents a very common complaint. for men over forty years old. The aim of the study was to evaluate if Flat Magnetic Stimulation (FMS) technology could help individuals with symptomatic erectile dysfunction.
METHODS
Twenty patients with erectile dysfunction, underwent eight sessions of about 30 minutes each in a twice a week frequency with the study device. During treatments, every potential side effect was assessed. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) was compiled by all patients at the beginning, after the eighth treatment and at 1 month from the end of the last treatment. The questionnaire scores were presented as median values along with the interquartile range (IQR) and we set the significance threshold at 0.01.
RESULTS
After the treatment and at 1-month follow-up, the increase in questionnaire scores was statistically significant compared to the baseline, thus supporting the clinical usefulness of this treatment. In particular, the result of the study indicates a statistically significant difference between IIEF score before treatment (Median = 34) and IIEF score after the end of treatment (Median = 45) and between IIEF score before treatment and IIEF score at 1-month follow-up (Median = 54).
CONCLUSIONS
The study findings showed that FMS represents a promising treatment option to individuals affected by symptomatic erectile dysfunction.
Topics: Humans; Male; Erectile Dysfunction; Middle Aged; Magnetic Field Therapy; Treatment Outcome; Surveys and Questionnaires; Adult; Aged; Follow-Up Studies
PubMed: 38713081
DOI: 10.4081/aiua.2024.12506 -
Sexual Medicine Reviews Jun 2024The prevalence of male sexual dysfunction (MSD) increases with age, with >50% of men aged >40 years reporting erectile dysfunction (ED). In recent years, wearable male... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
The prevalence of male sexual dysfunction (MSD) increases with age, with >50% of men aged >40 years reporting erectile dysfunction (ED). In recent years, wearable male sex devices (WMSDs) have been increasingly utilized by patients and recommended by sexual medicine clinicians.
OBJECTIVES
This study seeks to investigate the safety and efficacy of products currently marketed for the treatment of MSD.
METHODS
Available products for WMSDs were reviewed by analyzing product websites, forums, advertisements, and clinical recommendations. Qualitative comparisons were based on patient reviews, cost, and specific features. Investigatory evidence and Food and Drug Administration status were also reviewed. Additionally, Google Trends was used to determine the popularity of devices over time.
RESULTS
Eight WMSDs for the treatment of MSD and enhancement of sexual pleasure were reviewed. Constriction bands, such as the Maintain Ring Loop, Eddie by Giddy, and Xialla, have shown significant benefits in clinical trials and were the most popular devices among patients. Smart devices can provide real-time feedback on erectile quality and/or sexual performance. Similar to the RigiScan, the Adam sensor provides feedback on erectile quality while monitoring changes in penile tumescence during sleep with additional analysis available through a mobile application. Neuromodulation devices such as the Morari Patch and vPatch/in2 Patch use electrical stimulation to delay ejaculation and improve sexual function. The FirmTech Performance Ring uses sensors to track the vital signs of erectile fitness with clinical trials ongoing.
CONCLUSIONS
Overall, this review describes the available investigatory evidence for a range of WMSDs and highlights the potential benefits and limitations of these devices in treating MSD and enhancing sexual pleasure. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of these devices and to determine which ones may be the most suitable for individual patients.
Topics: Humans; Male; Wearable Electronic Devices; Erectile Dysfunction; Penile Erection
PubMed: 38686687
DOI: 10.1093/sxmrev/qead053 -
Asian Journal of Urology Apr 2024Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition of insufficient penile erection, consistently or recurrently, for sexual activity. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) induces...
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha, transforming growth factor-beta, degree of lower urinary tract symptoms as predictors of erectile dysfunction in benign prostatic hyperplasia patients.
OBJECTIVE
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition of insufficient penile erection, consistently or recurrently, for sexual activity. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) induces transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), which causes the transition of epithelial cells into mesenchymal cells that affect ED. This study aimed to evaluate the roles of TNF-α, TGF-β, degree of lower urinary tract symptoms, and prostatic volume for the presence of ED in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients.
METHODS
Our study performed an analytic observational retrospective cohort study using secondary data from four hospitals in Bali, Indonesia, including medical records and other administrative data. The sample was BPH patients with several history qualifications.
RESULTS
Our sample was 83 respondents, ranging from 50 years to 80 years, 61 respondents with ED and 22 with non-ED. The International Prostate Symptom Score showed a significant result, which indicates that ED is more common in patients with higher International Prostate Symptom Score (=0.002). Moreover, the TNF-α of ≥43.9 pg/mg and TGF-β of ≥175.8 pg/mL were significantly associated with the presence of ED in BPH patients (<0.0001). Despite these results, prostate volume is not significant with ED (=0.947).
CONCLUSION
TNF-α, TGF-β, and lower urinary tract symptoms severity can predict the occurrence of ED in BPH, while prostatic volume was not significant.
PubMed: 38680590
DOI: 10.1016/j.ajur.2023.07.003 -
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) Apr 2024: The neuroendocrine system plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including reproduction, with evidence suggesting its significant involvement in...
: The neuroendocrine system plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including reproduction, with evidence suggesting its significant involvement in male fertility and sperm development. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) are expressed in both male and female reproductive tissues, influencing penile erection and regulating steroidogenesis in males. Therefore, our study aimed to compare the protein levels of VIP and PACAP in seminal plasma between healthy controls and sub-fertile patients. Additionally, we sought to correlate the levels of these biomarkers with clinical, functional, and laboratory findings in the participants. : The study included a total of 163 male participants for analysis. The participants were further stratified into subgroups of fertile and sub-fertile men of four subgroups according to the 2021 WHO guidelines. Seminal plasma concentrations of the neuropeptides VIP and PACAP were measured using human enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. : The findings showed statistically significant differences in total sperm count, sperm concentration, total motility, and vitality ( < 0.001) between the fertile group and the sub-fertile group. Specifically, significant differences found between healthy males and oligoasthenospermic patients ( = 0.002), and between asthenospermic and oligoasthenospermic patients ( = 0.039). An ROC analysis showed associated sensitivity and specificity values of 62.2% and 55.6%, respectively, to PACAP seminal levels differentiated between sub-fertile patients from fertile males ( = 0.028). No significant difference in seminal levels of VIP was found between the sub-fertile and fertile groups. : Previous research leads to the point of PACAP active involvement in spermatogenesis. In accordance to our study, in human semen samples, we have seen a significance change in PACAP levels amongst patients with low sperm count or with both low sperm count and low motility, hinting at its contribution and acting as a possible factor in this complex process. Thus, alterations in the levels or actions of these neuropeptides have been associated with certain reproductive disorders in males.
Topics: Humans; Male; Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide; Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide; Adult; Semen; Fertility; Biomarkers; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; Infertility, Male
PubMed: 38674298
DOI: 10.3390/medicina60040652 -
The Journal of Sexual Medicine May 2024Penile cosmetic enhancement procedures have been performed for many years with varying success. However, they have historically been relegated to niche areas of sexual... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Penile cosmetic enhancement procedures have been performed for many years with varying success. However, they have historically been relegated to niche areas of sexual medicine, with limited data, and have not achieved mainstream adoption. More recently, the topic has been increasingly discussed within academic congresses due to availability of novel techniques, therapies, and procedures. Given their distinctive nature, the Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA) felt that it was pertinent to develop formal position statements to help guide both patients and sexual medicine providers on the current state of the scientific literature and to give recommendations for future research.
AIM
The study sought to provide an evidence-based set of recommendations for injection and surgical procedures designed to lengthen, augment, or otherwise cosmetically enhance the penis.
METHODS
A review was performed of all scientific literature listed in PubMed from inception through December 2023 relating to penile cosmetic enhancement procedures. Only invasive (injection/surgery) therapies were included due to their distinct risk-benefit profile compared with more conservative treatments (eg, vacuum erection devices, penile traction devices). Similar therapies were categorized, with pertinent data summarized and used to help create relevant position statements. All statements were expert opinion only and were based on analyses of the potential risks and benefits of the specific therapies.
OUTCOMES
A total of 6 position statements were issued relating to 5 distinct sexual medicine cosmetic enhancement procedures.
RESULTS
A consensus opinion was reached by SMSNA leadership on the state of injection/surgical penile cosmetic enhancement procedures as of 2024. Key topic areas addressed included injectable soft tissue fillers, suspensory ligament division, graft-and-flap procedures, silicone sleeve implants, and sliding/slicing techniques. Distinct recommendations were tailored to each therapy and were based solely on the current state of the literature. It is anticipated that future studies will further inform position statements and will lead to ongoing modifications.
CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS
The current position statements provide both patients and clinicians evidence-based, expert recommendations on best practices relating to penile cosmetic enhancement procedures.
STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS
Strengths include the use of an expert panel of sexual medicine clinicians, consensus design, and summary of existing literature. Limitations include expert opinion and limited research on the topic.
CONCLUSION
The current SMSNA position statements provide evidence-based, consensus opinions on the appropriate role for penile augmentation and cosmetic procedures in 2024.
Topics: Humans; Male; Cosmetic Techniques; Penis; Societies, Medical; North America
PubMed: 38654638
DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae045