July 22, 2011
Dear Dr. Reed,
I found one of your blogs on the Internet. I saw you were answering questions from some other men. I decided to write to ask a question of you regarding Penile Implants.
I have a 29 year old penile implant (AMS 3-piece unit) that needs replacing. After the original surgery I was devastated to see the loss of length and girth. Before going through a revision surgery, I have done some research and found studies with positive outcomes with men retaining most, if not all of their original length and girth. Most actually gained using the protocols.
They used VED’s and Penis Traction Therapy for several months. Then, they had the penile implants surgically placed in their penis. The result: a larger than previously possible penile implant was now able to be implanted, offering much better satisfaction from the men.
I contacted two Urologists who conducted a VED study (see attachment) that showed good outcomes in retaining length and girth prior to penile implant surgery. This included first-time implants and revisions. The VED (vacuum erection device) was effective for both groups toward improving the final surgical results. Again, a much larger penile implant was able to be implanted than otherwise would have been possible otherwise. Now for my questions:
One of the Urologists said, “yes, it would definitely help”. The other Urologist said, “It wouldn’t hurt, but due to encapsulation it probably would not be of any help”.
What is meant by Encapsulation? Does your opinion lean in one direction or the other of these two Drs.?
It’s confusing when you get differing opinions from doctors, especially those who were involved in the same study.
Thankyou,
Leonard B.
Good afternoon Leonard,
I am familiar with this concept and have been offering it to all my patients
seeking implantation for the past 9 months since I read about this in AUA News.
We may recommend a somewhat different approach but generally the principle is the same.
Additionally we also offer partial release of the suspensory ligament.
If you wish to confer further, I am available for consultation
which you can initiate over the phone. Our fee is 250.
Have a restful weekend,
Harold M. Reed, M.D.
305-865-2000