FrankTalk.org

Inflating this morning I got to about 90% and started getting the pump collapsing with a gurgling noise. Deflated and tried again with same result. Unit is four years old and I hope not failing. Anyone else seen this?

This sounds like a system leak I experienced last year. The entire implant was replaced.

mikestap wrote:This sounds like a system leak I experienced last year. The entire implant was replaced.

I'm thinking the same as well. I think the only way to get a gurgling sound/feeling is to be low on saline.
I hope that I'm wrong. Good luck.

Unfortunately it probably has a leak somewhere. That is what mine did when there was a leak at the pump. Go visit your dr and see what they think.

Thanks for responding. I don’t look forward to the likely revision with discomfort, down time, and the usual months of insurance battling. Dr Cramer is no longer in the area so I need to find a new surgeon as well.

Hrc714 wrote:Thanks for responding. I don’t look forward to the likely revision with discomfort, down time, and the usual months of insurance battling. Dr Cramer is no longer in the area so I need to find a new surgeon as well.

Couple of ways to look at this. Its generally accepted that revisions are not as intense as the first install. I've heard that once you have a medical device. Its easier to get a replacement covered. Frequently, a 1 or 2cm larger implant will fit. You might hit it lucky & get away with just a pump replacement.
As for Kramer. Since your new doctor knows what size is in there. It shouldn't be difficult to just use the same brand/size implant.
Good luck.

I am sure now that my implant failed after only 4 years. I can now only pump to 70% before the pump goes flat and it sounds like the last bits of a soda through a straw. I have left it at 70% as I wait for opening at Dr’s office which will be some time. Guessing I will be down for 4 to 6 months. It appears the leak is between pump and reservoir so the cylinders are able to stay inflated but losing ability to inflate. I am concerned about leaving at 70% but it is somewhat useable and somewhat concealable. No pain at that level but not sure of other issues.

I agree with you. It is a good idea to keep it like that, because you don't know if you can inflate again to this point if you deflate it.
Why do leaks happen after a couple of years? Is it since the installation of the implant and leak was so tiny and gradually reached this level? Or is there a specific activity that could have pulled the tubes strongly?

Hrc714 wrote:I am sure now that my implant failed after only 4 years. I can now only pump to 70% before the pump goes flat and it sounds like the last bits of a soda through a straw. I have left it at 70% as I wait for opening at Dr’s office which will be some time. Guessing I will be down for 4 to 6 months. It appears the leak is between pump and reservoir so the cylinders are able to stay inflated but losing ability to inflate. I am concerned about leaving at 70% but it is somewhat useable and somewhat concealable. No pain at that level but not sure of other issues.

I think that you're on the right path. Check Viaswiss on his revision story. I think his down time after the revision was in the 4 week range. His pain was lower than the first time.
The only unanswered time is how long it might take with your insurance & getting surgical space in your area.

You would need insurance to cover this? The manufacturer isn’t on the hook for the malfunction?