The Spectra penile implant is a medical device designed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It is a malleable, or semi-rigid, penile prosthesis that provides a permanent solution for men when less invasive treatments are ineffective. The device is fully contained within the body, providing the rigidity needed for sexual intercourse.
How the Spectra Implant Works
The Spectra implant consists of a pair of semi-rigid, bendable cylinders surgically placed within the corpora cavernosa, the two chambers of the penis that fill with blood during a natural erection. These cylinders provide constant firmness. To engage in sexual activity, the user manually positions the penis upward to create a rigid erection. This erection can be maintained for as long as desired.
When not in use, the penis can be bent downward for concealment. The implant’s design is noted for its simplicity, containing no pumps, valves, or fluid-filled reservoirs characteristic of other implant types. This lack of complex components means its operation is entirely manual. The internal structure may contain articulating segments of titanium and polyethylene, which aid in its ability to be positioned.
The Surgical and Recovery Process
The placement of a Spectra implant is a surgical procedure performed on an outpatient basis, meaning most patients go home the same day. The surgery is conducted under anesthesia, and the surgeon makes a small incision in the scrotum or just above the pubic bone to insert the cylinders. Proper sizing of the implant during the procedure is important for a good fit. This procedure is considered the simplest among penile implant surgeries.
In the initial days after surgery, patients can expect pain, bruising, and swelling, which is managed with prescribed medication. For the first couple of weeks, activity is limited, and patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting. They should also wear supportive underwear that keeps the penis positioned upward against the abdomen to help with healing. A course of antibiotics is prescribed to prevent infection.
Most patients can return to light activity and work within two to four weeks. The implant is ready for use approximately four to six weeks after the procedure. This waiting period allows internal tissues to heal, and clearance from the surgeon is required before resuming sexual activity.
Suitability and Patient Considerations
The Spectra implant is an option for men with chronic erectile dysfunction who have not responded to other treatments. It is often considered for individuals who may have difficulty with the mechanics of an inflatable device. For example, men with limited hand strength or dexterity may find the manual operation more manageable. The device is also a treatment option for some cases of Peyronie’s disease, a condition that causes curvature and painful erections.
Implanting a prosthesis permanently alters the natural erectile tissue, making future spontaneous erections impossible. Men with certain conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or active infections, may not be suitable candidates due to a higher risk of complications. A consultation with a urologist is necessary to discuss all treatment options and their associated risks and benefits.
Comparing Implant Types
The primary alternative to a malleable implant like the Spectra is an inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP). The difference is their mechanism; the Spectra is manually positioned, while an IPP uses a pump in the scrotum to move fluid into cylinders to create an erection. This allows an IPP to achieve a more natural-looking flaccid state when the cylinders are deflated.
The Spectra implant is always firm, which can be a drawback for some regarding concealment. The simplicity of the malleable implant is a main advantage, as there are fewer mechanical parts that could fail compared to the multi-component IPP system. While satisfaction rates are high for both implant types, some studies suggest a higher preference for inflatable devices due to the more natural flaccidity.