The patient H.V.T, born 1994, in Hanoi told the doctors of the Central Military Hospital 108 that he wanted better sexual health and, following friends' advice, used various wines, drugs, and unverified supplements for years.

However, his sexual function gradually declined after taking medicine and supplements, making it hard to achieve an erection. Two years ago, T. had a girlfriend and moved toward marriage, but he couldn’t engage in sex because of loss of erection. T. sought treatment at multiple medical facilities, but the results were not promising.

Recently, he decided to visit Central Military Hospital 108, where doctors diagnosed him with erectile dysfunction and recommended surgery to implant an inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP).

Dr Nguyen Tuan Dat, Level-2 specialist doctor and head of the Andrology Department at the Central Military Hospital 108, said IPP implantation is the last resort for erectile dysfunction patients who do not respond to other treatments.

To perform the technique, doctors implant an artificial penile prosthesis, a three-piece device, into the body. The "button" can produce an erection, and can be released with a deflation button. This method doesn’t affect the patient’s desire or emotions, helping men reclaim their "manhood." 

Implanting an artificial penile prosthesis is a relatively new technique in Vietnam. This long-term solution is applied to patients with erectile dysfunction unresponsive to medication, or people with Peyronie’s disease, cavernosal fibrosis, impotence after strokes, or following certain pelvic surgeries or radical prostatectomy. 

The prosthesis can be used for at least 10 years.

Dr Dat said that after surgery, patients need counseling, guidance on medication, and proper post-operative care to ensure quick healing and body acceptance of the prosthesis.

According to Dr Dat, erectile dysfunction in men is on the rise. Many factors contribute to this condition, including lifestyle, environmental factors, hormonal issues, metabolic disorders, and simply a desire to improve quality of life.

The doctor warned men against using unverified foods, drinks, or drugs that could harm their "manly" abilities, potentially leading to irreversible erectile dysfunction. When signs of erectile dysfunction appear, men should visit reputable andrology clinics for examination, consultation, and the best treatment.

Vo Thu