Zhang JH, DeWitt-Foy M, Jankowski J, Wood HM. The Dilemma of Penile Prosthesis Implantation in Sex Offenders.
J Sex Med 2021;
18:1826-1829. [PMID:
34620571 DOI:
10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.09.002]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Penile prosthesis surgeons face an ethical dilemma when confronted with a sex offender who seeks surgical management of erectile dysfunction.
AIM
To provide practice guidelines to screen and manage patients with a history of sexual violence prior to surgery.
METHODS
Three urologists with expertise in penile prosthesis surgery and 1 medical bioethicist were asked to contribute their opinions and provide recommendations to address this controversial topic.
OUTCOMES
Expert opinion supported by analysis of available literature and institutional experience.
RESULTS
The authors review current United States legislation, published literature on sex offender registration, and institutional data on the prevalence of sex offenders among men seeking penile prosthesis placement. Within a context established by medical bioethical principles, the authors propose a practice guideline for screening sex offenders prior to penile implantation surgery and referral for trained psychological evaluation prior to surgical management.
STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS
Strengths: multidisciplinary approach in data acquisition including bioethical and legal review.
LIMITATIONS
Lack of available evidence regarding recidivism risk in sex offenders who undergo penile prosthesis placement.
CONCLUSION
Sex offenders exist among the population of patients seeking surgical placement of a penile prosthesis. A standardized practice guideline for management of this population should be employed with the intention to reduce future harm. Zhang JH, DeWitt-Foy M, Jankowski J, et al. The Dilemma of Penile Prosthesis Implantation in Sex Offenders. J Sex Med 2021;18:1826-1829.
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