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A contemporary review of the treatments and challenges associated with penile rehabilitation after radical prostatectomy including a proposed optimal approach

International Journal of Impotence Research (2023)Cite this article

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Abstract

Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting men worldwide. Despite advancements in understanding prostate anatomy and minimally invasive approaches to surgical treatment, surgery can have significant adverse effects on sexual function. Penile rehabilitation strategies have emerged as a promising approach to mitigate the impact of prostate cancer treatments on erectile function and improve quality of life. Several methods have been employed for penile rehabilitation, including pharmacotherapy, vacuum erection devices, intracavernous injections, and emerging novel techniques. Yet, there is no consensus on the exact programs or timing of initiation that should be utilized for optimal recovery after surgery. This review discusses various rehabilitation protocols and long-term outcomes and explores the cost-effectiveness of different interventions. Additionally, this review discusses the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to penile rehabilitation which includes patient education, counseling, and the selection of an appropriate rehabilitation strategy tailored to each individual’s needs and preferences. Continued research and collaboration among healthcare professionals are essential to refine rehabilitation approaches and ensure optimal outcomes for patients with prostate cancer.

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Fig. 1: Penile rehabilitation protocol at Indiana University.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Urology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA

    Megan Bock, Ramzy T. Burns, Thairo A. Pereira & Helen L. Bernie

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  1. Megan Bock
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Contributions

MB: acquired data and designed the paper, drafted manuscript, approved final version. RTB: helped draft several sections of the manuscript, prepared edits and revised manuscript, wrote final version. TP: helped draft several sections of the manuscript, prepared edits and revised manuscript, wrote final version. HB: designed manuscript and conceived idea for work, revised manuscript, approved final version.

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Correspondence to Ramzy T. Burns.

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Bock, M., Burns, R.T., Pereira, T.A. et al. A contemporary review of the treatments and challenges associated with penile rehabilitation after radical prostatectomy including a proposed optimal approach. Int J Impot Res (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41443-023-00782-6

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