Pearls & Perspectives: Innovation in Men’s Health, with Ryan Griggs, DO

In this dynamic episode of Pearls & Perspectives, recorded live at the 26th Annual Fall Scientific Meeting of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America in Grapevine, Texas, host Amy Pearlman, MD, sits down with Ryan Griggs, DO, a fellowship-trained urologist specializing in men’s health at Monterey Men’s Health and Salinas Valley Urology. Together, they explore some of the hottest debates and most exciting innovations in urology today — from penile implant infection prevention to next-generation vasectomy technology.

Griggs opens up about what it’s like to be “on the hot seat” at major conferences, facing tough questions from peers after presenting research that challenges long-held surgical practices. His latest work compares antibiotic vs antiseptic irrigation protocols in penile implant surgery—a topic that has divided the field. With antibiotic resistance rising and antiseptics showing promise in lab and clinical settings, Griggs argues it’s time to re-evaluate tradition and embrace science-backed change.

The conversation then pivots to another innovation: a “seal vasectomy” procedure in development with Signati Medical. Unlike standard techniques that require a scrotal incision, this new method uses a proprietary handpiece to seal and excise the vas deferens through the skin—no cutting, no poking, and minimal discomfort. Early clinical results are promising, showing complete success and no wound complications. The device is now moving through the FDA process, with the potential to redefine how vasectomies are performed and make the procedure more accessible across practice settings.

Pearlman and Griggs also tackle the real-world challenges of innovation—from surgeon comfort zones and patient perceptions to equipment logistics in private practice. Griggs notes that true change in urology often comes from patient demand.

Before wrapping, Griggs gives a glimpse into his next research focus—exploring alternative fill solutions for penile implants. Working with Gerard Henry, MD, and Edward Karpman, MD, he’s studying an antiseptic-infused implant fill designed to reduce infection risk, drawing inspiration from what he calls the “Kinder Egg effect.” Early findings show the approach is safe for the device and may alter the biofilm environment around implants, potentially lowering complications in revision surgeries.

Chapters
1:41 Penile implant infection
7:19 "Seal vasectomy" procedure
14:32 Filling penile implants with alternative substances