In one, the combined resi-pump is placed in the scrotum, eliminating the need for a reservoir in the abdomen. The other variation consists only of two plastic cylinders, each being a self-contained unit consisting of a small reservoir at one end, the inflatable portion in the middle and a pump on the other end. Inserting an inflatable prosthesis takes about 45 minutes and is usually done with epidural or general anesthesia. The patient usually goes home two hours after surgery and returns to work in about a week. With all types of prostheses, sexual function can begin about six weeks after surgery.
Patients are able to urinate and ejaculate without loss of sensation.
Hundreds of patients have intercourse regularly without their partners knowing they have a prosthesis. Complications of Prostheses At the MSD Clinic, we have implanted more than 1,800 penile prostheses since 1982. The overall satisfaction rate has been very high, with at least 9 out of 10 patients and their partners happy with their implants. Newer models available since the late 1980's largely avoid problems seen with earlier prototypes. At one time or another we have encountered virtually every complication reported with prosthesis surgery.