Experiences of patients with a hydraulic erection prosthesis

To evaluate the psychological effect of implantation of an inflatable hydraulic penile prosthesis, a follow-up investigation was carried out among 25 patients who between November 1985 and March 1989 received such a prosthesis in the department of Urology at St. Radboud Hospital, and among their partners. The methods consisted of written questionnaires and personal interviews. The mean time between implantation and evaluation was 20 months. Implantation did not improve sexual or general partner relationship. However, the great majority of patients (84%) and their partners (75%) would decide again to have the prosthesis implanted. Some elements of dissatisfaction (concerning the limited length of the erect penis, difficult coital position, and failing ejaculation) were found, that draw attention to the necessity of improving information and psychosexual counselling.