According to Dr. Mark Allen (972.612.8037), a urologist in Plano, Texas, “Erectile dysfunction is a problem common in men as they age. It’s a silent problem that doesn’t have to be kept silent. There is treatment for erectile dysfunction and men should explore all of their options before settling on living with a condition they believe is helpless.”

Erectile dysfunction is termed as the inability to obtain or maintain an erection as is necessary for sexual satisfaction, also called impotence. The severity of the dysfunction varies from one man to another. One man may be able to achieve but not maintain an erection while another may not be able to obtain an erection at all. The variety of severity, and under diagnoses due to a man’s embarrassment about the issue make it hard to establish just how common erectile dysfunction is. But keeping these variables in mind, doctors have still estimated that erectile dysfunction affects 30 million men in the United States.

It is possible for erectile dysfunction to affect a man at any age, but it is pretty uncommon among men less than 40 years of age and only 5% of the national average reflects men of this age group. At age 45-50 the statistic jumps to 15%. Erectile dysfunction affects 20% of men 50-55, and 50% of men between 70-80 years of age.

Erectile dysfunction is an issue that occurs commonly as men age, but there are a few medical factors that can cause it to become more severe, or to strike at an earlier age. Urologists state that factors such as lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol intake, obesity, and smoking directly affect the onset and severity of erectile dysfunction.

Regardless of what can be done to ward off the occurrence of erectile dysfunction, in some cases it is inevitable. The first and most important step to battling this issue is to see your urologist. You may be in early enough stages to treat your impotence with medication. Urologists commonly prescribe medication such as Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis, which are taken orally and may help receive an erection.

If the stage of your impotence is beyond medication then you and your doctor may decide to talk about implant treatment for erectile dysfunction. For patients with moderate to severe erectile dysfunction there is an option to receive a penile prosthesis.

A penile prosthesis is surgically implanted in a careful surgery and has been proven to help a man regain his ability to achieve an erection. There are currently two types of penile prosthesis, the semi-rigid non-inflatable, and the inflatable. The semi-rigid is a series of flexible rods that are surgical implanted to support the penis. With these rods, the man is able to manually place the penis in the upward position for intercourse, or downward for daily activities.  The inflatable prosthesis is more complex, but also more successful. With an inflatable penile prosthesis, a pump filled with liquid is placed inside the scrotum. Then a reservoir is placed inside the penis. When a man is ready to receive an erection his simply squeezes the scrotum, and the liquid is transferred to the reservoir inside the penis which causes an erection. When the man is ready to deflate the erections he presses a release valve which returns the liquid to the pump.

Urologist Dr. Allen has a number of penile prosthesis’ to choose from. After careful consideration the decision is between the two of you to decide which option is the best for you. A few of his most commonly used prosthetics are:

AMS Spectra—This is a non-inflatable penis implant. It is a sterile, non-pyrogenic, single-use implant. It includes a pair of cylinders surgically inserted into the penis which is manually positioned by the male. It is easy to use by the male or the partner. It is totally concealed within the body, and is the easiest surgical option. Its general complaint is that it remains firm no matter the position it is placed in.

AMS Ambicor—A 2-Piece Inflatable penis implant. Consists of a pair of reservoirs implanted in the penis, and a single pump bulb implanted in the scrotum. The pump is compressed to receive an erection, and the erection is bent to deflate the prosthesis. It is totally concealed within the body, and is more natural when flaccid then the non-inflatable implant.

AMS 700 Series—A 3-piece inflatable penis implant available in a variety of sizes and models. It consists of a reservoir that is placed within the abdomen, a pump places inside the scrotum, and a pair of cylinders placed inside the penis. This prosthesis is favored among recipients because it expands the girth of the penis, and it feels most like a natural erection when compared with other implants. It is also favored because when flaccid, it looks and feels most natural.

As with all medical procedures, there are advantages and disadvantages to each of these procedures. Your urologist and yourself are the only ones who can decide which, if any of these procedures are right for. Talk to your doctor today, and look forward to feeling more confident.

Are you a man experiencing the symptoms of erectile dysfunction? If so, there are treatment options available.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a Dallas, TX-based urologist (972.612.8037), offers erectile dysfunction treatment for men suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED)—also known as impotence—which is the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection that is firm enough for sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction is an on-going problem and often leads to a decrease in sexual desire; the condition can cause emotional stress and anxiety and can deeply affect a relationship.

Most men will experience some form of erectile dysfunction after the age of 40 and will not be psychologically affected by it. Frequently, men who have chronic erectile dysfunction are ashamed to discuss the condition with their doctors.

According to Dr. Mark Allen, MD, “It is important for men to reach out to their physicians to discuss their ED symptoms because many times there is an underlying medical problem such as diabetes, heart disease and certain prostate conditions that can be directly linked to the condition. While stress, anxiety and psychological or mental health issues can worsen the symptoms, in most cases, the problem is caused by something physical. There is a clear link between erectile dysfunction and these medical conditions.”

Erectile Dysfunction Treatment

There are many erectile dysfunction treatment options on the market today. The first step most doctors will take is to make sure any undiagnosed medical health problem is treated. In many cases, these problems can cause or worsen ED. In addition, patients on medications or drugs for other unrelated health conditions should consider decreasing the dosage if these drugs are proven to have harmful side effects.

Oral medications—such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra—offer successful erectile dysfunction treatment for many men. These drugs enhance the effect of nitric oxide, which is a natural chemical produced by the body that relaxes the muscles within the penis. Each medication varies and is offered in different dosages.

If oral medications fail to work, there are some new erectile dysfunction treatment options that have proven to be successful. A penis pump, or vacuum devise, is available to help create an erection enlarging the penis manually through a hand-powered or battery-powered pump. This pump creates a vacuum that pulls blood into the penis resulting in an erection that typically lasts long enough for intercourse.

The newest erectile dysfunction treatment method being offered by urologists offers a 90% effective rate for men suffering from chronic impotence. The AMS penile implant devise for erectile restoration is offered for men who have exhausted all other treatment options.

The AMS penile implant treatment, performed as an out-patient procedure under general anesthesia, involves surgically placing inflatable cylinder devices into both sides of the penis. These devises consist of semi-rigid rods made from either polyurethane or silicone. Two additional pieces are also used: A reservoir containing liquid and a pump is also connected to the system and is placed under the loose skin of the scrotal sac, between the testicles. To inflate the prosthesis, a man simply presses on the pump that transfers liquid from the reservoir to the cylinders. When this occurs, an erection is the result. When sexual intercourse is over, pressing on the deflation valve will deflate the prostheses.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, offers the AMS devise to his patients. There are several devises to choose from but they each offer the same result. “To most, a penile implant is not visibly noticeable from the outside of the body. That is a big plus for my patients because it looks natural. For men who have had inactive, unsatisfying sex lives, the penile implant devise offers a permanent, long-term solution. The devise does not alter a man’s ability to reach orgasm and ejaculation is not affected. More than 85% of my patients who have had the penile implant procedure have experienced great success and a return of normalcy to their success lives,” says Dr. Mark Allen.

While modern treatments are proving to offer effective remedies for erectile dysfunction, it’s important for men to do their part as well. Certain lifestyle choices are directly related to impotence. If you smoke, quit. If you are overweight, choose a healthier lifestyle and get regular exercise. Drinking too much or taking certain drugs can also worsen erectile dysfunction. Psychological problems in a relationship can cause anxiety, depression and stress—these factors increase the symptoms associated with erectile dysfunction.

Whether the cause of your erectile dysfunction is physical, psychological or both, there are options for you. Make an appointment with your doctor today and learn which erectile dysfunction treatment is right for you.

About the writer:

Kristy Theis is the Medical Content Editor for eMedicalMedia and is a Dallas-based freelance communications writer. Dr. Mark Allen, MD, contributed to this feature.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD of Plano, TX utilizes the AMS medical devices to treat erectile dysfunction.  The below information on the 3-Piece Inflatable Penile Prosthesis for erectile restoration is provided courtesy of American Medical Systems.  For more information on AMS, visit www.americanmedicalsystems.com.

AMS 700 ^TM Series
3-Piece Inflatable Penile Prosthesis
The AMS 700 Series is an advanced three-part inflatable prosthesis consisting of a reservoir implanted in the abdomen, a pump placed in the scrotum and a pair of cylinders inserted into the corpora cavernosa. It closely simulates the look and performance of a natural erection. The gold standard for innovative penile implant technology, the AMS 700 Series now features the new Tactile Pump^TM, InhibiZone^TM Antibiotic Surface Treatment and Parylene, a wear-reducing micro coating.

Advantages for Patients

• Has InhibiZone Antibiotic Surface Treatment, a proprietary combination of rifampin and minocycline
• Replicates the process and feel of a natural erection more closely than 1- or 2-piece implants
• Deflates softer and more flaccid than 1- or 2-piece styles of penile implants
• High degree of patient and partner satisfaction
• Easy to use
• Totally concealed

Patient Satisfaction Rate

• Some studies report 92% patient and 96% partner satisfaction rate¹

¹ Montorsi F, Rigatti P, Carmignani G, Corbu C, Campo B, Ordesi G, Breda G, Silvestre P, Giammusso B, Morgia G, Graziottin A. AMS three-piece inflatable implants for erectile dysfunction: a long-term multi-institutional study in 200 consecutive patients. Eur Urol Jan 2000 Jan v. 37(1)p. 50-5.

Styles Available
The AMS 700 Series consists of three styles for three different patient types.

• 700CX^TM—Controlled expansion cylinders allow for increased girth; can be used in all patient types that are able to receive a 3-piece prosthesis
• 700 Ultrex^TM—For the patient who wants expansion in girth and length; provides up to 20% cylinder elongation.
• 700 CXR^TM—The narrowest proximal profile of any inflatable prosthesis; for scarred, fibrotic or stenotic patients

Device Mechanics
The AMS 700 Series prostheses are fluid-filled systems, each consisting of a pair of cylinders, an inflate/deflate pump and a reservoir. The components are connected by kink-resistant tubing.

The AMS 700 Series prostheses consist of these parts:

• Cylinders—Come in various lengths and diameters, depending on the model number. Rear-tip extenders can be placed over the solid rear tip of the cylinders to extend their lengths, for a customized fit.
• Reservoir—Silicone balloon for holding saline, and kink-resistant tubing that connects the reservoir to the pump. Two sizes are available: 65 mL and 100 mL.
• Pump—The AMS 700 CX, Ultrex and CXR cylinders use a standard-size pump consisting of a pump bulb (for inflation), a release valve (for deflation) and connecting tubes.

Innovative Technology
The AMS 700 Series now features the new Tactile Pump^TM, InhibiZone^TM Antibiotic Surface Treatment and Parylene, a wear-reducing micro-coating.

• Tactile Pump—With its EZ grip surface, the Tactile Pump is designed to be easier to inflate and deflate than any inflatable penile prosthesis on the market today. Silicone ridges on the pump bulb are designed to minimize finger slippage during inflation; finger pads on the deflation block are designed to make it easier to locate and grasp the deflation portion of the pump. These enhancements make it easy for patients to learn and use the system. In a small clinical study, over 86.7% of patients learned in three minutes or less.¹ That can mean less frustration and greater patient satisfaction.1. Data accepted for publication. Delk, et al, “Early Experience with the American Medical Systems New Tactile Pump: Results of a Multi-Center Study.
• InhibiZone is a synergistic combination of Minocyline Hydrochloride and Rifampin impregnated into the external silicone surfaces of the implant, creating a zone of inhibition around the prosthesis. The antibiotics impregnated into the cylinders elute from the surface when exposed to a warm, moist environment.
• Parylene micro coating is a medical grade polymer applied to AMS 700 Series cylinder components. This unique coating is designed to enhance device longevity by reducing friction-based wear. In bench-testing, parylene coated cylinders endured up to five times as many cycles as uncoated cylinders.¹ This gives patients the security of an implant designed for long-lasting performance and wear.1. Data on file, American Medical Systems

Erectile Restoration

Dr. Mark Allen, MD of Dallas, TX uses AMS devices for erectile dysfunction treatment.  The below information is courtesy of American Medical Systems.  For more information, please visit www.americanmedicalsystems.com

Penile Implants-The Satisfying Solution

AMS has been a leading innovator in the field of erectile restoration for over three decades. Today we offer the broadest line of penile implant options in the industry. From simple malleable implants to the most advanced three-piece inflatable devices, AMS sets the standard for innovation and ease of use.
Every AMS penile implant is engineered to provide a satisfying solution to erectile dysfunction (ED). More than 300,000 men have received an AMS implant and studies show that over 90 percent are happy with the device.1,2,3,4.

1. Rajpurkar A, Dhabuwala CB. Comparison of satisfaction rates and erectile function in patients treated with sildenafil, intracavernous prostaglandin E1 and penile implant surgery for erectile dysfunction in urology practice. J Urol Jul 2003 v.170(1)p.159-63.
2. Kearse WS Jr, Sago AL, Peretsman SJ, Bolton JO, Holcomb RG, Reddy PK,
Bernhard PH, Eppel SM, Lewis JH, Gladshteyn M. Report of a multicenter clinical evaluation of the Dura-II penile prosthesis. J Urol May 1996 v. 155(5) p.1613-6.
3. Levine LA, Estrada CR, Morgentaler A. Mechanical reliability and safety of, and patient satisfaction with the Ambicor inflatable penile prosthesis: results of a 2 center study. J Urol Sep 2001 Sep v. 166(3)p.932-7.
4. Montorsi F, Rigatti P, Carmignani G, Corbu C, Campo B, Ordesi G, Breda G, Silvestre P, Giammusso B, Morgia G, Graziottin A. AMS three-piece inflatable implants for erectile dysfunction: a long-term multi-institutional study in 200 consecutive patients. Eur Urol Jan 2000 Jan v. 37(1)p. 50-5.

Benefits of a Penile Implant

* Can help you return to an active, satisfying sex life
* Offers a permanent, long-term solution to ED
* Provides the ability to have an erection anytime you choose
* Allows for greater spontaneity-have sex when the mood strikes
* Enables you to maintain an erection as long as you desire
* Eliminates the need for costly pills or shots
* Does not interfere with ejaculation or orgasm

Risks of a Penile Implant

* Requires surgery and healing period
* Eliminates the possibility of return of natural erections
* May require repeat surgery due to infections, erosions or mechanical problems with the device

There are several types of penile implants available from AMS. Talk to Dr. Mark Allen about which one may be right for you.

The Procedure

Placing a penile implant may be performed as an outpatient procedure, which generally lasts from 30 minutes to over an hour. The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia.

Before the procedure, Dr. Allen will give you a thorough explanation of what will happen during your surgery and how to prepare for it.

Results

Some studies show the following results for three-piece penile implants:

High Patient Satisfaction

* 86% say they would undergo the procedure again¹
* 88% would recommend the device to others¹

High Partner Satisfaction

* 96% partner satisfaction²

High Mechanical Reliability

* Engineered for long-term reliable operation¹
* Over 90% of patients report satisfactory prosthetic erections at three years³

1. Carson CC, Mulcahy JJ, Govier FE. Efficacy, safety and patient satisfaction outcomes of the AMS 700CX inflatable penile prosthesis: results of a long-term multicenter study. AMS 700CX Study Group. J Urol Aug2000 v. 164(2)p.376-80.
2. Montorsi F, Rigatti P, Carmignani G, Corbu C, Campo B, Ordesi G, Breda G, Silvestre P, Giammusso B, Morgia G, Graziottin A. AMS three-piece inflatable implants for erectile dysfunction: a long-term multi-institutional study in 200 consecutive patients. Eur Urol Jan 2000 Jan v. 37(1)p. 50-5.
3. Govier FE, Gibbons RP, Correa RJ, Pritchett TR, Kramer-Levien D. Mechanical reliability, surgical complications, and patient and partner satisfaction of the modern three-piece inflatable penile prosthesis. Urology Aug 1998 Aug v.52(2) p.282-6.