Innovations in Penile Prosthetics: The Rigicon System Explained by Dr. Andrew C. Kramer

Since the first inflatable penile prosthesis was introduced in 1973, the field has seen dramatic innovation. Yet, one challenge has remained: how to balance optimal rigidity during erection with natural concealment when flaccid.

Many conventional devices still force a trade-off—either too rigid when deflated or too soft when inflated. The Rigicon penile implant system aims to close that gap with advanced materials and smarter design.

It is also built to serve complex clinical scenarios, such as:

• Revision surgeries
• Fibrotic corporal tissue (often post-priapism)
• Patients with higher infection risk

The Rigicon three-piece inflatable penile prosthesis is a system that builds on proven design principles—while introducing its own innovations in each component.

• Built-in Lockout Valve – Prevents auto-inflation, similar to the Coloplast Titan^®, but integrated into the reservoir itself—simplifying the pump.
• Hydrophilic Coating – Allows for surgeon-selected antibiotics and smooth insertion, especially in challenging anatomy.
• Optimized Shape – Designed for easier placement in both standard and ectopic positions.

These multi-layered cylinders are engineered for natural concealment and functional stiffness.

Key Features:

• Hydrophilic Coating for easy insertion and antibiotic bonding.
• Anatomic Distal Tips, shaped to fit the natural contours of the corpora cavernosa—modeled after cadaveric research.
• Four-Layer Wall: Soft when deflated, firm when inflated.
• Reinforced Construction: Minimizes long-term risk of aneurysmal ballooning.
• Secure Rear Tip Extenders (RTEs): Lock-in mechanism designed to prevent intraoperative detachment.
• Expansion Options: Choose between girth-only or girth + length expansion models—ideal for patients with corporal scarring or atrophy.

Rigicon’s pump was developed with ease-of-use in mind—especially for older patients or those with limited hand strength.

Standout Attributes:

• 🖐️ No “Pop” Needed: Inflation begins without a forceful first squeeze—often described by patients as having a “memory foam” feel.
• 🖐️ One-Touch Deflation: Quick release, like AMS 700^™, without requiring strong manual pressure.
• 🖐️ Easy Patient Training: Simpler learning curve leads to better patient confidence and satisfaction.

Dr. Kramer also introduced two new surgical instruments that assist in safe, effective implantation:

• HL Dilator – A reusable, double-ended olive-tip dilator (10 Fr and 12 Fr) that enhances visibility and control, especially in fibrotic tissue.
• Disposable Furlow Inserter – A single-use alternative to metal tools, reducing sterilization concerns and the risk of cross-contamination.

Rigicon also offers a modern semi-rigid implant with a flexible core—similar in performance to Boston Scientific’s Tactra^™.

• Available in various lengths and diameters
• Tailored to fit a wide range of anatomical needs

Rigicon’s system is built with infection prevention in mind.

• ⚠️ Hydrophilic Coatings: On both cylinders and reservoir, compatible with surgeon-selected antibiotics.
• ⚠️ Disposable Tools: Reduce the risk of infection by eliminating sterilization-related variables.
• ⚠️ Particularly beneficial for:
  • Patients with diabetes or immunosuppression
  • Cases involving previous revisions

While no device is immune to infection, these design choices aim to reduce associated risks.

According to Dr. Kramer, the Rigicon penile prosthesis system stands out for its innovative features and clinical benefits:

“The Rigicon system represents a significant step forward in penile prosthetics, balancing optimal rigidity with natural concealment while addressing key clinical challenges.”