BTN News: A groundbreaking medical procedure has marked a significant milestone in the healthcare landscape of Uruguay, where a team of specialists successfully performed the country’s first surgery to implant a hydraulic penile prosthesis. This advanced surgical intervention took place at the public Hospital Maciel in Montevideo, led by the renowned Chilean urologist Reynaldo Gómez. The operation provided new hope for patients suffering from erectile dysfunction, particularly those whose condition is unresponsive to traditional treatments. The procedure was made possible thanks to the generous donation of an AMS 700 prosthesis from the manufacturer, Boston Scientific, highlighting both the collaborative spirit within the medical community and the importance of cutting-edge technology in improving patient outcomes.
In recent years, Uruguay has seen the implementation of semirigid penile prostheses to address erectile dysfunction, but the hydraulic prosthesis represents a new frontier in the country’s medical offerings. This type of prosthesis is particularly notable for its ability to allow the penis to return to a flaccid state after artificially induced erections, a significant improvement over its semirigid counterparts, which remain in a permanently semi-erect state. Dr. Laura Mouro, head of the Urology Service at Hospital Maciel, emphasized the significance of this development, especially for patients who have undergone prostate cancer surgeries. Although this specific procedure was a unique case enabled by the donation, Dr. Mouro highlighted the importance of preparing local medical teams for future cases, as there are patients in Uruguay awaiting treatment for refractory erectile dysfunction.
Dr. Gómez, an expert in urethral and reconstructive surgery and the head of Urology at the Hospital del Trabajador in Chile, noted that the operation itself is meticulously planned and lasts approximately 90 minutes. He expressed his commitment to sharing his knowledge with Uruguayan colleagues to ensure that such advanced procedures become part of the therapeutic arsenal available across the country. The surgery’s methodical nature, with pre-established steps, underlines the importance of precision and expertise in its execution.
One of the most compelling aspects of this hydraulic prosthesis is its advanced design. The device includes a sophisticated valve system where a fluid is transferred to two inflatable cylinders within the penis from a reservoir implanted in the abdomen. This process is controlled by a button discreetly placed in the scrotum, allowing the patient to initiate and then deflate the erection at will. This technology offers a more natural and cosmetically pleasing result compared to semirigid implants, addressing concerns of both functionality and aesthetics.
While any surgical procedure carries potential risks, Dr. Gómez pointed out that complications typically arise from unexpected findings related to previous surgeries. However, with careful postoperative care, such as monitoring for inflammation, patients can be trained on how to effectively use their new prosthesis. The specialist reassured that the risk of infection, although not entirely eliminated, is very low due to the biocompatible materials used in these devices, which have undergone rigorous testing to ensure safety and efficacy.
The effectiveness of the hydraulic penile prosthesis is underscored by the high levels of patient and partner satisfaction, with studies showing that more than 80% of those who have undergone the procedure report positive outcomes. This high satisfaction rate speaks to the significant improvement in quality of life that this advanced medical solution can offer to individuals affected by erectile dysfunction.
As Uruguay takes this significant step forward in urological surgery, the successful implantation of the hydraulic penile prosthesis not only represents a triumph for the medical professionals involved but also opens the door to future innovations in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. The collaboration between Uruguayan and international medical teams showcases the potential for shared expertise to bring the latest medical advancements to patients in need, ensuring that they have access to the most effective treatments available.
