303 Modeling the Biomechanical Behavior of the Corpora Cavernosa as it Relates to Prosthetics

Abstract

The corpora cavernosa provides support and shape to the penile erection and is the limiting factor for penile size. Understanding the biomechanical behavior of this is critical to penile surgery and prosthetics. We sought to better understand the biomechanics of this structure provide, which provides the framework within which the device may operate. We performed a systematic review of existing literature on the biomechanical properties and developed a computer finite element (FE) simulation model to better understand the dynamics between the cavernosal tissue and implanted devices. Using pubmed we searched for articles detailing the relevant biomechanical variables: tensile strength, young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio and shear moduli of the different tissues contributing to the biomechanical properties of the penis/corporal complex. We then used FE simulation software to simulate expansion in the longitudinal and transverse planes of a penile prosthesis from a 1cm to a 1.5 cm radius expansion. Tissues surrounding the prostheses were modelled with the mechanical properties of the tunica albuginea.