Post-Operative Counseling for the Penile Implant Patient: Insights from the 26th SMSNA Annual Fall Scientific Meeting
At the second day of the 26th SMSNA Annual Fall Scientific Meeting, Drs. Jonathan Clavell-Hernandez, Martin Gross, and Robert J. Valenzuela, discussed strategies for counseling patients to improve post-implant satisfaction. Their focus included managing second-opinion consultations, addressing concerns about infection risk, and setting expectations around girth and length restoration.
For patients seeking a second opinion after an initial implant, Dr. Clavell-Hernandez emphasized the importance of validating the patient’s emotions; such as anxiety, embarrassment, disappointment, sadness, or anger about the outcome of their procedure. He advised clinicians to clearly explain what aspects can and cannot be corrected and to set realistic expectations, reminding patients that complications are possible with any surgical procedure.
Dr. Gross addressed the increased risk of infection with revision surgeries, underscoring the need to communicate this risk clearly and calmly. He emphasizedthat all implanted devices carry some risk of infection and encouraged providers to explain the level of risk specific to the patient's case, along with available options for managing post-operative infections. He also reminded surgeons that the responsibility for infection prevention lies primarily with them.
Dr. Valenzuela highlighted the importance of involving patients throughout the pre- and post-operative process to increase satisfaction. Key points from his talk included introducing vacuum erection and traction devices before surgery, establishing post-operative protocols early, discussing desired outcomes, and evaluating whether additional surgical maneuvers are necessary. These may include cavernosal sparing, adjunct soft tissue techniques, advanced tunical lengthening, and addressing glans hypermobility.
Collectively, all three speakers emphasized the importance of clear, honest communication, setting realistic expectations, and working collaboratively with patients to achieve optimal post-operative outcomes.
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