Citations

Abstract Background To date, no scoring system has adequately defined clinical efficacy of erectile dysfunction (ED) therapies when evaluating differences between cohorts or in meta-analytic studies. Aim To outline the minimal criteria required for any therapy to be considered clinically effective in the treatment of ED. Methods An analytic review was performed of standardized ED questionnaires, with a particular emphasis placed on the International Index of Erectile Function, Erectile Function Domain (IIEF-EFD), and the minimally clinically important difference (MCID) concept. The data were used to create a societal position statement and recommendations on best practices within clinical trials to determine treatment efficacy. Outcomes The SMSNA provided 6 key statements and recommendations to suggest best practices and define minimal thresholds for improvements required for an ED therapy to be considered clinically effective. Results The IIEF-EFD currently represents the preferred standardized questionnaire to evaluate for changes in erectile function post-treatment and is the only questionnaire adequate to assess primary outcomes. To claim efficacy, investigational treatments must demonstrate MCID between cohorts (eg, 2-, 5-, or 7-point median improvements between groups among mild, moderate, or severe ED cohorts) in prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, and adequately powered studies. In studies employing mixed-severity ED populations, a method of calculating an adjusted MCID was proposed based on statistical weighting principles. Similarly, a novel method for analyzing differences between cohorts in meta-analytic studies was presented to incorporate the concept of MCID. Based on these principles, the SMSNA would not support efficacy of a therapy based on statistical significance in a meta-analytic study alone. Similarly, studies claiming efficacy utilizing responder approaches (ie, statistically higher percentage of men achieving MCID between cohorts) would not be acceptable unless the median difference between groups on the IIEF-EFD achieved MCID. Clinical Implications The current position statement provides important, evidence-based data and scientific principles to help define what may be considered as an effective therapy in the treatment of ED. This framework provides a basis that decision-makers, clinicians, and patients may use to help differentiate clinically effective therapies. Strengths & Limitations The published literature is limited by a lack of validated instruments and data defining MCID for ED therapies between cohorts and with meta-analytic studies. The current position statement provides important guidance on these areas of ambiguity pending further, definitive data. Conclusion The current position statement provides detailed guidance on key criteria required to conclude efficacy of therapies used to treat ED.

Abstract Introduction Penile augmentation or penis enlargement surgery refers to any technique aimed at enhancing penile length or girth. These male enhancement surgical techniques can increase total penile length, either flaccid or erect, while others add to the penile shaft’s girth and/or glans size. Proposed strategies include physical methods such as various penile exercises, mechanical traction devices, and medical therapy, while surgical interventions include cosmetic and phallic reconstructive techniques and use of fillers, sleeves, grafts, and flaps to augment penile size. Objectives The International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM) consensus statements provide evidence-based recommendations and aim to guide a clinical framework in penile aesthetic and augmentation. Methods A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify published literature relevant to penile augmentation or enhancement. Preliminary consensus was presented to the delegates attending the 5th ICSM meeting, and feedback was incorporated into the final document. Results Twenty new recommendations are provided with corresponding levels of evidence and grades of recommendation. Conclusions Due to the controversies and lack of longer-term data regarding penile augmentation and cosmetic procedures, comprehensive assessments and careful patient counseling weighing the pros and cons, as well as potential complications, are mandatory before embarking on any treatment. Surgeons should be experienced in anatomy and various surgical techniques, and it is important to individualize surgical options based on patient condition(s) and needs, surgeon expertise, and local resources.

Abstract Introduction There is no ideal treatment for Peyronie’s Disease (PD) since every patient has different needs with varying perceived risks versus benefits of individual treatment options, coupled with the degree of impact relating to PD on sexual function and beyond. Objectives The 5th International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM) guideline on PD provides an update to the previous ICSM with an aim to provide a clinical framework and best-evidenced consensus recommendations to assist clinicians in managing PD. Methodology Available literature was reviewed, and a modified Delphi consensus was undertaken by leading sexual medicine experts to achieve a set of Quality of Evidence and strength of recommendations. This guideline was developed as an authoritative best-evidenced consensus incorporating state-of-the-art knowledge and contemporary literature. Results A total of thirty-one recommendations were made on PD guidelines. New updates to the 4th ICSM on PD have been made in definition, pathophysiology, and treatment strategies. The presence of penile pain with erection could occur in the chronic phase due to torque or stretch on the penile scar and surrounding tissue. Oral therapy works best during the acute phase and should be provided concurrently with other treatment modalities. Penile traction therapy can reduce penile deformity as monotherapy or may be offered as part of a multimodal therapy approach. There is no convincing evidence supporting cellular-based therapy. The type of plication procedure used depends on the surgeon and patient preference, although excision of the tunica followed by plication may have a higher complication rate. There is currently no ideal graft, and graft contracture can occur postoperatively. Adjunctive procedures such as penile modeling, tunical plication, plaque incision/excision and grafting can be performed when penile deformity and/or penile curvature persist following penile prosthesis implantation. Conclusions The management of PD should be individualized based on the patient’s needs and preferences while balancing the benefits and risks of each treatment option.

Abstract Introduction Obesity, defined as an elevated Body Mass Index (BMI) >30, is a prevalent public health concern with far-reaching implications for various medical procedures and outcomes. In the context of inflatable penile prosthesis placement (IPP), where patient well-being and surgical success are of paramount importance, the impact of obesity on postoperative and intraoperative complications warrants thorough investigation. Objective Our study aimed to investigate the impact of BMI on both postoperative and intraoperative complications in an international, multi-institutional cohort of patients who underwent IPP placement. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review of 4398 cases. These cases were divided into two distinct groups based on BMI: less than 30 (n = 2260) and greater than or equal to 30 (n = 2138). The study assessed various surgical factors as well as complications, including overall complications, corporal scarring, incontinence, intraoperative complications, proximal perforation, distal perforation, proximal crossover, distal crossover, and urethral injury. Results Our analysis revealed that there were no statistically significant differences in intraoperative or postoperative complications between the two BMI categories. Notably, proximal corporal measurement was significantly higher for >30 BMI group (9.55 +/−2.18) compared to <30 BMI group (9.14 +/−2.19), (p = < 0.001). The incidence rates for overall complications (30.2% vs. 28.7%; p = 0.164), corporal scarring (18.2% vs. 16.7%; p = 0.36), incontinence (3.53% vs. 3.13%; p = 0.076), intraoperative complications (1.94% vs. 1.68%; p = 0.253), and specific complications all exhibited no significant differences. Similarly, post-operative complications, including both non- infectious (6.99% vs. 6.22%; p = 0.215) and infectious (2.61% vs. 1.87%; p = 0.165) complications, did not significantly vary between BMI categories. Conclusions Our findings indicate that BMI does not exert a statistically significant influence on postoperative and intraoperative complications in the context of high-volume prosthetic urology. In the absence of any other differences between patients of differing BMIs, surgeons may need to be mindful of pump tubing length concerns in obese patients. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Coloplast, Clarus Therapeutics, Antares Pharma, Acerus.

Abstract Introduction The lower urinary tract injury, although often not life-threatening, can result in devastating long-term morbidity and, in some cases, permanent disability. Male genital trauma adversely affects male sexual function. Aim This 5th International Consultation on Sexual Medicine guideline on male genitalia trauma evaluates urologic trauma literature to guide clinicians in the best-evidenced management with specific emphasis on preservation and optimization of male sexual function. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted to identify relevant English-language publications and contemporary guidelines using the PubMed database (search dates January 1, 1990 to June 1, 2024) on the following terms: “trauma,” “penis,” “urethra,” “testis,” and “scrotum.” The available literature was discussed, and selected articles with the highest evidence available were used to create consensus guideline statements, categorized based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system. In the absence of sufficient evidence, additional information was provided as a Clinical Principle or Expert Opinion. Results Fourteen recommendations are provided with corresponding levels of evidence and grades of recommendation. Conclusions Treating clinicians should be mindful that both the male genitalia trauma itself and treatment outcomes invariably affect various male sexual functions. Optimal treatment of male genitalia trauma is essential and should incorporate patient tolerances, needs, and preferences to minimize long-term sexual dysfunction.

Abstract Introduction Obesity, defined as an elevated Body Mass Index (BMI) >30, is a prevalent public health concern with far-reaching implications for various medical procedures and outcomes. In the context of inflatable penile prosthesis placement (IPP), where patient well-being and surgical success are of paramount importance, the impact of obesity on postoperative and intraoperative complications warrants thorough investigation. Objective We aimed to investigate the impact of BMI on both postoperative and intraoperative complications in an international, multi-institutional cohort of patients who underwent IPP placement. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review of 4,398 cases. These cases were divided into two distinct groups based on BMI: less than 30 (n = 2,260) and greater than or equal to 30 (n = 2,138). The study assessed various surgical factors as well as complications, including overall complications, corporal scarring, incontinence, intraoperative complications, proximal perforation, distal perforation, proximal crossover, distal crossover, and urethral injury. Results Our analysis revealed that there were no statistically significant differences in intraoperative or postoperative complications between the two BMI categories. Notably, proximal corporal measurement was significantly higher for >30 BMI group with 1858 (86.9%) compared to 1919 (84.9%) for <30 BMI group, (p = < 0.001). The incidence rates for overall complications (30.2% vs. 28.7%; p = 0.164), corporal scarring (18.2% vs. 16.7%; p = 0.36), incontinence (3.53% vs. 3.13%; p = 0.076), intraoperative complications (1.94% vs. 1.68%; p = 0.253), and specific complications all exhibited no significant differences. Similarly, post-operative complications, including both non-infectious (6.99% vs. 6.22%; p = 0.215) and infectious (2.61% vs. 1.87%; p = 0.165) complications, did not significantly vary between BMI categories. Conclusions Our findings indicate that BMI does not exert a statistically significant influence on postoperative and intraoperative complications in the context of high-volume prosthetic urology. In the absence of any other differences between patients of differing BMIs, the IPP industry may need to consider device specific alterations with pump tubing length in obese patients. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Coloplast, Clarus Therapeutics, Antares Pharma, Acerus.

Abstract Introduction Inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) surgery is a well-established treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). There is little information in the literature regarding the utilization of perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis in primary and revision IPP surgeries. Objective We investigated the patterns of perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis among a large multinational cohort of primary and revision IPP surgeries. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 5,400 patients (4,187 primary IPP patients and 849 revision IPP patients) from our Prosthetic Urology Multi-Institutional Partnership (PUMP) institutions. Usage data for intravenous (IV), preoperative oral, and postoperative oral antimicrobials were analyzed. We specifically assessed patient profiles, antimicrobial selection, and antimicrobial duration. Multivariate statistical analyses were conducted to identify significant variations between primary and revision surgeries. Results For patients undergoing primary IPP placement, 81.9% received IV antibiotics for <24 hours whereas 18.1% received IV antibiotics for >24 hours. Preoperative oral antimicrobials were used in 59.4% of patients and 99.4% received postoperative oral antimicrobials. The overall infection rate for primary implants was 2%. Notably, quinolone administration shows a higher postoperative infection rate (11.4%) compared to gentamicin (1.9%), cephalosporin (0%), and vancomycin (1.0%). Multivariable regression analysis identifies factors such as a history of infection, diabetes, and priapism as predictors for postoperative infections. Furthermore, the study finds that perioperative antifungal use is associated with a decreased risk of infection. Conclusions This study provides valuable insights into the patterns of perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis. Duration, type, and route of antibiotics given preoperatively or postoperatively do not affect postoperative infection rates among high volume prosthetic urologists. Giving IV antibiotics for more than 24 hours does not affect postoperative infection. Perioperative antifungals are a protective factor. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Coloplast, Clarus Therapeutics, Antares Pharma, Acerus.

Abstract Introduction Inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) surgery is a well-established treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). There is little information in the literature regarding the utilization of perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis in primary and revision IPP surgeries. Objective We investigated the patterns of perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis among a large multinational cohort of primary and revision IPP surgeries. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 5400 patients (4187 primary IPP patients and 849 revision IPP patients) from our Prosthetic Urology Multi-Institutional Partnership (PUMP) institutions. Usage data for intravenous (IV), preoperative oral, and postoperative oral antimicrobials were analyzed. We specifically assessed patient profiles, antimicrobial selection, and antimicrobial duration. Multivariate statistical analyses were conducted to identify significant variations between primary and revision surgeries. Results For patients undergoing primary IPP placement, 81.9% received IV antibiotics for <24 hours whereas 18.1% received IV antibiotics for >24 hours. Preoperative oral antimicrobials were used in 59.4% of patients and 99.4% received postoperative oral antimicrobials. The overall infection rate for primary implants was 2%. Notably, quinolone administration shows a higher postoperative infection rate (11.4%) compared to gentamicin (1.9%), cephalosporin (0%), and vancomycin (1.0%). Multivariable regression analysis identifies factors such as a history of infection, diabetes, and priapism as predictors for postoperative infections. Furthermore, the study finds that perioperative antifungal use is associated with a decreased risk of infection. Conclusions This study provides valuable insights into the patterns of perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis. Duration, type, and route of antibiotics given preoperatively or postoperatively do not affect postoperative infection rates among high volume prosthetic urologists. Giving IV antibiotics for more than 24 hours does not affect postoperative infection. Perioperative antifungals are a protective factor. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Coloplast, Clarus Therapeutics, Antares Pharma, Acerus.

Abstract Background Penile cosmetic enhancement procedures have been performed for many years with varying success. However, they have historically been relegated to niche areas of sexual medicine, with limited data, and have not achieved mainstream adoption. More recently, the topic has been increasingly discussed within academic congresses due to availability of novel techniques, therapies, and procedures. Given their distinctive nature, the Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA) felt that it was pertinent to develop formal position statements to help guide both patients and sexual medicine providers on the current state of the scientific literature and to give recommendations for future research. Aim The study sought to provide an evidence-based set of recommendations for injection and surgical procedures designed to lengthen, augment, or otherwise cosmetically enhance the penis. Methods A review was performed of all scientific literature listed in PubMed from inception through December 2023 relating to penile cosmetic enhancement procedures. Only invasive (injection/surgery) therapies were included due to their distinct risk-benefit profile compared with more conservative treatments (eg, vacuum erection devices, penile traction devices). Similar therapies were categorized, with pertinent data summarized and used to help create relevant position statements. All statements were expert opinion only and were based on analyses of the potential risks and benefits of the specific therapies. Outcomes A total of 6 position statements were issued relating to 5 distinct sexual medicine cosmetic enhancement procedures. Results A consensus opinion was reached by SMSNA leadership on the state of injection/surgical penile cosmetic enhancement procedures as of 2024. Key topic areas addressed included injectable soft tissue fillers, suspensory ligament division, graft-and-flap procedures, silicone sleeve implants, and sliding/slicing techniques. Distinct recommendations were tailored to each therapy and were based solely on the current state of the literature. It is anticipated that future studies will further inform position statements and will lead to ongoing modifications. Clinical Implications The current position statements provide both patients and clinicians evidence-based, expert recommendations on best practices relating to penile cosmetic enhancement procedures. Strengths and Limitations Strengths include the use of an expert panel of sexual medicine clinicians, consensus design, and summary of existing literature. Limitations include expert opinion and limited research on the topic. Conclusion The current SMSNA position statements provide evidence-based, consensus opinions on the appropriate role for penile augmentation and cosmetic procedures in 2024.

Abstract Background Variations in climate have been associated with a greater risk of surgical site infections, urinary tract infections, and changes in the skin microbiome; however, limited data exist on the impact of climate on inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) infections. Aim We sought to evaluate the impact of climate on the risk of IPP infections in a large international, multicenter cohort. Methods We performed a multi-institutional, retrospective study of patients undergoing IPP surgery. We then evaluated whether the month or season, during which surgery was performed, affected device infections. Implant infections were defined as infections requiring device explantation. A univariate logistic regression analysis was undertaken. Outcomes Our primary outcome was implant infection. Results A total of 5289 patients with a mean age of 62.2 ± 10.8 years received IPP placement. There was a fairly even distribution of implants performed in each season. A total of 103 (1.9%) infections were recorded. There were 32 (31.1%) IPP infections in patients who underwent surgery in the summer, followed by 28 (27.2%) in the winter, 26 (25.2%) in the spring, and 17 (16.5%) in the fall. No statistically significant differences were recorded in terms of season (P = .19) and month (P = .29). The mean daily temperature (P = .43), dew point (P = .43), and humidity (P = .92) at the time of IPP placement was not associated with infection. Clinical Implications These findings provide reassurance to prosthetic urologists that infection reduction strategies do not need to be tailored to local climate. Strengths and Limitations Climate data were not directly recorded for each hospital, but rather based on the monthly averages in the city where the surgery was performed. Conclusion The climate at time of IPP placement and time of year of surgery is not associated with IPP infection risk.