Division of Urology, Beth Israel Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA.
Penile prostheses represent an important treatment modality for erectile dysfunction. A review of the design considerations for penile prostheses is presented, using the American Medical Systems, Inc., product line as a practical example. Current models include both inflatable hydraulic and solid malleable designs. The challenge for the future is to develop devices with improved durability while optimizing ease of use and cosmetic appearance.