Advances in activation pumps for three-piece penile prostheses: a narrative review

The evolution of penile prosthesis pumps marks a significant milestone in the management of erectile dysfunction. Originating in the early 1970s, the development of multi-component hydraulic penile implants by Dr. F. Brantley Scott, Dr. Gerald Timm, and Dr. William Bradley laid the foundation for modern penile prostheses. Since the late 20th century, continuous advancements in inflatable penile prostheses have been introduced by various manufacturers, focusing on enhancing usability, minimizing complications, and improving patient satisfaction. These refinements have particularly emphasized the importance of pumps, critical to device functionality and overall patient experience. Recent innovations in prosthesis technology underscore the progress made in surgical techniques and the integration of advanced materials, leading to better clinical outcomes and heightened user satisfaction. This paper reviews the historical development, technological advancements, and current trends in penile prosthesis pumps. Although numerous studies have examined pump-related complications and patient satisfaction, a more comprehensive and systematically designed prospective research initiative is needed to investigate these challenges further.