For men battling severe erectile dysfunction (ED) that hasn’t responded to medications or injections, a penile implant is not just a treatment—it’s a definitive, life-restoring solution. It offers the ability to be spontaneous and reliable again, rebuilding confidence and intimacy. Among the options available is the Tactra™ Malleable Penile Implant from Boston Scientific.
As Dr. Venkatesh Kumar, a Urologist and Robotic Surgeon specializing in men’s health and prosthetic surgery in Noida, Greater Noida, and Delhi NCR, my foremost commitment is to patient outcomes. Many men ask about the Tactra Penile Implant, and it’s my duty to provide a completely transparent, expert review to help you make the best possible decision for your body and your life.
What is the Tactra™ Malleable Penile Implant?
The Tactra Penile Implant is a type of semi-rigid penile prosthesis. It consists of a pair of firm but bendable cylinders that are surgically placed inside the erection chambers of the penis.
How it Works: The implant provides constant rigidity, sufficient for intercourse at any time. To use it, you simply position the penis upwards. For concealment, you manually bend it downwards.
The Manufacturer: It is made by Boston Scientific, a globally recognized leader in medical devices, and is FDA-approved, ensuring a high standard of manufacturing.
Advantages of Tactra™ Implant for Men
The Tactra Penile Implant has a few distinct advantages that appeal to certain patients:
Exceptional Rigidity: Tactra is engineered to be one of the firmest malleable implants on the market. For men whose top priority is maximum hardness, this is a significant benefit.
Mechanical Simplicity: There are no pumps, valves, or reservoirs. Its purely mechanical design makes it incredibly simple to use, which is ideal for men with limited hand dexterity or those who want the most straightforward device possible.
Reputable Manufacturer: The Boston Scientific name carries a legacy of quality and research in the medical device field.
Crucial Considerations: An Expert Surgeon’s Perspective on Tactra’s Limitations
While respecting patient choice is paramount, my experience has revealed significant clinical challenges with the Tactra Penile Implant that every man must understand before proceeding.
1. Severe Sizing Limitations
This is the most critical drawback. A successful penile implant surgery depends on a precise, customized fit. The Tactra Penile Implant is only available in three lengths (10.5 cm, 11 cm, and 13 cm). Human anatomy is far more diverse. In contrast, other leading malleable implants offer a wide range of sizes and rear tip extenders to achieve a truly customized fit.
Real-World Impact: If your corporal measurement is 12 cm, I am forced to use the 11 cm Tactra implant. This suboptimal fit can lead to a less-than-ideal cosmetic result, potential for the implant to shift, and a penis that is shorter than it could have been. A perfect fit is non-negotiable for long-term satisfaction.
2. Lack of a Hydrophilic Coating
Modern penile prostheses (like those from AMS and Rigicon) feature a hydrophilic coating. The Tactra implant does not. This special coating is vital for two reasons:
Infection Prevention: The coating absorbs antibiotics right before insertion, creating a powerful barrier against infection, the most feared complication of implant surgery.
Surgical Ease: The coating makes the implant slippery, allowing for a smoother, less traumatic insertion. This is especially important in patients with penile scarring (fibrosis) or Peyronie’s disease. Inserting the uncoated Tactra implant can be more difficult, potentially requiring a smaller, less-optimal size.
3. Ambiguous Warranty Support in India
A penile implant is a lifetime device. A clear, written warranty provides essential peace of mind. Currently, the warranty policies for the Tactra Penile Implant in India are not as clearly defined or robust as those from other leading manufacturers. This creates uncertainty should a mechanical failure or complication occur down the line.
Comparison: Tactra™ Malleable vs. Inflatable Penile Implant
Cost of Tactra™ Penile Implant Surgery in Noida
We believe in complete transparency. The all-inclusive package for Tactra Penile Implant surgery with Dr. Venkatesh Kumar in Noida is ₹2,50,000.
This comprehensive cost includes:
The cost of the Tactra™ implant itself
Surgeon’s fees and the full surgical team
All hospital charges, including OT and one-day admission
Anesthesia costs
All required pre-operative testing
Post-operative care, follow-ups, and dressings
We also provide assistance with EMI and medical financing options to ensure treatment is accessible.
Who is the Right Candidate for a Tactra™ Implant?
The Tactra Penile Implant may be a reasonable choice for:
Men who prioritize extreme firmness and simplicity above all else.
Patients with severe arthritis or limited hand strength who cannot operate a pump.
Those seeking a more budget-friendly surgical option for severe ED.
However, it is generally not the ideal first choice for men who:
Desire the most natural look and feel, especially when flaccid.
Have complex cases involving penile fibrosis or Peyronie’s disease.
Want the absolute lowest possible risk of infection.
My Professional Recommendation
If a patient comes to my clinic in Noida specifically requesting the Tactra Penile Implant, I have the expertise to perform the surgery safely and effectively. I will always respect your autonomy.
However, based on my commitment to providing the best possible long-term outcomes, I typically do not recommend it as the primary option due to the severe sizing limitations and the lack of an infection-resistant coating. My goal is to give you a result that you are not just happy with, but thrilled with for the rest of your life.
Your journey to conquering ED deserves a solution without compromise. Schedule a confidential consultation today to discuss all your penile implant options and create a personalized plan that is truly right for you.
