Inflatable penile prostheses for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Male erectile dysfunction is a common medical condition. Recent advances in our understanding of corpora cavernosa physiology have resulted in three effective oral medications (sildenafil, vardenafil and tadalafil--all phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors), which can effectively treat many men with erectile dysfunction. However, a large number of men are not adequately treated by these medications due to their cost, side effects, contraindications or lack of a satisfactory erectile response. For men who do not respond to less invasive therapy, an inflatable penile prosthesis can provide an excellent alternative. This article will review and critique the currently available inflatable penile prostheses in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.