A recognition of clinical excellence
Hospital Clínic Barcelona has been awarded dual accreditation as a Centre of Excellence in penile prosthesis implantation by Coloplast and Boston Scientific, the two leading companies in the field. This unique distinction in Spain recognises centres with high surgical volumes, outstanding clinical outcomes, specialised training programmes and significant scientific activity.
The professionals of Clínic’s Urology Department, led by Dr Antonio Alcaraz, have implanted more than 300 penile prostheses over the last four years, making it the highest-volume centre in the country. The hospital currently performs around 80 procedures each year and receives referrals from across Spain as a national reference centre. The Urology Department is part of the Institute of Nephrology and Urology, directed by Dr Rosa Ramos.
“Beyond the recognition itself, this accreditation positions us as a centre of excellence. A centre with access to the best implants and the most advanced surgical techniques, which always has a positive impact on patients because it leads to fewer complications, better surgical outcomes and greater satisfaction,” says Dr Josep Torremadé, andrologist in the Urology Department and Head of the Andrology Section at Hospital Clínic Barcelona.
Dr Lluís Peri, Head of the Urogenital Reconstructive Surgery Section, also highlights the importance of teamwork, particularly the contribution of urologists and nursing and anaesthesiology professionals.
Leaders in Spain and among Europe’s leading centres
This dual accreditation adds to a track record that has established Clínic as one of Europe’s leading centres in this field. The hospital ranks second in Europe in the European Association of Urology’s Phoenix penile prosthesis registry, reflecting both its high activity volume and the extensive experience of its professionals.
The programme’s excellence is also built on its educational and research activities. Over the past two years, members of the unit have published 12 scientific articles in this area, organise several international courses every year and run an educational programme that trains specialists from different countries.
“The requirements needed to obtain these accreditations are not easy to meet. Firstly, a certain implantation volume is required, but it is also about outcomes, training and research. It is the combination of all these factors that enables us to achieve these accreditations,” explains Dr Torremadé.
A definitive solution for erectile dysfunction
Penile prosthesis implantation is indicated for patients with erectile dysfunction who have not responded to conventional treatments, such as oral medication, or who are looking for a permanent solution. It may also be recommended in selected cases of complex Peyronie’s disease or priapism.
Many of these patients have a history of diabetes, surgery or treatment for prostate or bladder cancer, or cardiovascular risk factors that can significantly affect erectile function.
A penile prosthesis is a medical device that is completely implanted within the body and allows patients to achieve an erection whenever they wish. The most advanced models are three-piece inflatable prostheses, which provide a response that closely resembles a natural physiological erection.
How does a penile prosthesis work?
The prosthesis consists of two cylinders implanted inside the corpora cavernosa of the penis, a small pump placed within the scrotum and a fluid reservoir located near the bladder. Through this hydraulic system, the patient can activate or deactivate the erection in a simple and discreet manner.
The procedure is performed through an incision of approximately two centimetres in the scrotum, making the surgical scar almost imperceptible. The activation mechanism is integrated into the scrotum and specialists often describe it to patients as a “third testicle”, as it can be easily manipulated without being externally visible.
With current-generation prostheses, both erection and detumescence (the return to the flaccid state) closely mimic natural physiological processes, and the device generally does not interfere with orgasm or ejaculation.
Fast recovery and a low complication rate
Penile prosthesis implantation is a highly standardised procedure at Clínic. Currently, 83% of interventions are performed on an outpatient basis, allowing most patients to return home on the same day of surgery.
Long-term outcomes are also highly satisfactory. Data show that prostheses remain functional in 95% of patients after five years and in 90% after ten years. In addition, the infection rate at Clínic is exceptionally low, standing at just 0.6%.
Specialist nursing teams play a key role throughout the process, from patient preparation to postoperative support and education on the correct use of the device.
Improving patients’ quality of life
Beyond addressing a physical condition, penile prosthesis implantation has a direct impact on emotional wellbeing, self-esteem and overall quality of life.
“Penile prostheses significantly improve quality of life because we are providing a real solution for real patients. Erectile dysfunction is a very common condition, affecting up to 50% of the population, and it has a major psycho-emotional impact. Therefore, beyond treating a disease, we are improving the patient’s wellbeing as a whole,” concludes Dr Torremadé.
