Outcomes and satisfaction rates for the redesigned 2-piece penile prosthesis.

Purpose: We evaluated long-term viability, quality of life and satisfaction with the redesigned 2 piece Ambicor inflatable penile prosthesis. This device underwent revision of the rear tip extender and reinforcement of the pump tubing connection to decrease fluid leak failure in 1998.

Materials And Methods: In this retrospective analysis we evaluated 146 men with erectile dysfunction at 2 centers who underwent device implantation between June 1999 and October 2004 with the redesigned prosthesis.

Wide variability in laboratory reference values for serum testosterone.

Introduction: The laboratory determination of testosterone levels consistent with a diagnosis of hypogonadism is complicated by the availability of multiple testosterone assays and varying reference ranges.

Aim: To assess current laboratory practices regarding availability of testosterone assays and use of reference values.

Methods: A telephone survey of 12 academic, 12 community medical laboratories, and one national laboratory.

Subjective sexual response to testosterone replacement therapy based on initial serum levels of total testosterone.

Introduction: Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has been shown to be beneficial for men with hypogonadism. However, it is unknown how well hypogonadal men respond to TRT based on the severity of testosterone deficiency.

Aim: To determine subjective sexual response rates to TRT based on initial serum testosterone values, with particular interest in men with "low-normal" levels of total testosterone (TT).

Technical advances in penile prostheses.

Despite the introduction of oral phosphodiesterase inhibitors, penile prostheses continue to be an important form of treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). Penile prostheses are associated with high satisfaction rates due to their ease of use, reliability, and ability to provide excellent rigidity. Advances over the last decade include steps to reduce mechanical failures and surface coatings to prevent prosthetic infections.

Phleboliths in varicoceles presenting as spermatic cord mass.

Objective: To discuss the diagnosis and management of phleboliths in the dilated veins of a varicocele.

Design: Case report.

Setting: Two healthy patients in an academic andrology center.