Infections of genitourinary prostheses.

Infections of penile prostheses and artificial urinary sphincters are relatively rare events. Most infections are due to gram-positive bacteria such as S. epidermidis or gram-negative enteric bacteria. Most commonly, infection begins at the time of implantation, although the hematogenous route has been documented. Signs and symptoms of prosthesis infection may be obvious or subtle. Treatment of infected prostheses usually requires removal, although successful salvage procedures have been described. Prevention of infection through proper antibiotic coverage and careful attention to sterile technique results in acceptably low infection rates.