Irrigation and Dipping Solutions for Hydrophilic Penile Implants: Weighing the Evidence on Irrisept.

Paul Chung, Edward Karpman

The VJSM presents the first of the debate series with host deputy editor-in-chief of the VJSM Dr David Barham, and guests Dr Paul Chung, and Dr Edward Karpman. The debate focuses on the use of Irrisept (0.05% chlorhexidine gluconate) in prosthetic urology, specifically as an irrigation solution and dip for hydrophilic-coated penile implants. Dr. Karpman presented data showing Irrisept was highly effective at reducing a wide range of bacterial species that commonly cause implant infections, achieving over 3-log reductions. 

In contrast, Dr. Chung's research suggested that Irrisept may interfere with the antimicrobial activity of the implant's hydrophilic coating when used as both a dip and irrigation. The discussion also touches on considerations around biofilm formation and the potential role of antifungal agents. Overall, this debate provides valuable insights into an important and controversial topic in prosthetic urology, with implications for improving patient outcomes. 

 The differing perspectives and methodologies presented offer a thought-provoking discussion that would be of great interest to urologists and other clinicians involved in penile implant procedures.