Peyronie’s Disease
Peyronie’s disease is characterized by the development of fibrous scar tissue, known as plaques, inside the of the penis. These plaques form as a result of abnormal healing after trauma or injury to the penis, leading to a noticeable bend or curve during an erection. The precise cause of Peyronie’s disease remains unclear, but several factors are thought to contribute to its development. Although not life-threatening, this condition can significantly affect sexual function and quality of life. Diagnosing Peyronie’s disease typically involves a physical examination by a urologist, who will evaluate the degree of curvature, the presence of plaques, and overall penile function. In some cases, imaging tests, such as ultrasound, may be used to evaluate the extent of the plaques and to guide treatment options. Treatment for Peyronie’s disease includes both surgical and non-surgical options. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, the effectiveness of previous treatments, and the impact on sexual function. Some men have both Erectile Dysfunction and Peyronies, in cases such as this, a penile implant may be a good option to treat both conditions.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Trauma or Injury: Repeated or acute injury to the penis, such as from vigorous sexual activity or accidents.
- Genetics: A family history of the condition may increase the likelihood of development.
- Connective Tissue Disorders: Conditions affecting connective tissues have been linked with Peyronie’s disease.
- Age: The risk of Peyronie’s disease increases with age, particularly in men over 40.
Symptoms
- Curvature or Bending: A noticeable curve or bend in the penis during an erection.
- Pain: Discomfort or pain in the affected area, especially during erections.
- Lumps or Plaques: Lumps under the skin of the penis that are palpable.
- Erectile Dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
- Medications: Oral medications may be prescribed to help reduce plaque size and alleviate symptoms. Another option, intralesional injections, are medications that are injected directly into the plaque that can help to break down scar tissue and reduce curvature.
- Physical Therapy: Penile traction therapyuses a penile traction device to gradually stretch the penis which can help reduce curvature and improve length. Shockwave therapy is also an option and works by applying shockwaves to the affected area to promote healing and alleviate pain.
Surgical Treatment Options
In cases where non-surgical treatments are ineffective, surgical options may be considered:
- Plication Surgery: This procedure involves placing stitches in the penis to straighten it. It is suitable for significant curvature without major loss of penile length.
- Plaque Incision and Grafting: The scar tissue is surgically cut, and a graft is used to cover the incision, helping to reduce curvature and restore function.
- Penile Prosthesis: For severe erectile dysfunction caused by Peyronie’s disease, a penile implant may be recommended to enable erections.
Peyronie’s disease may improve on its own over time. Regular follow-ups are crucial for tracking progress and adjusting treatment as necessary. At Conrad Pearson, our urologists are dedicated to assessing, treating, and monitoring your condition to create the most effective management plan to minimize symptoms and enhance quality of life.
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