Understanding Peyronie’s Disease: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment Options
What is Peyronie’s Disease?
Peyronie’s Disease (PD) is a condition in which fibrous scar tissue, or plaques, develop inside the penis, leading to a curvature during erections. This condition, often triggered by trauma or injury, can cause pain and difficulties with sexual function. It affects up to 10% of men, primarily over the age of 50.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The common symptoms of Peyronie’s Disease include:
- Penile Curvature: The most recognizable sign, which can vary in
- Pain During Erection: Typically occurs in the acute phase of the
- Palpable Plaques: Hard areas within the penis that can be
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Difficulty achieving or maintaining an
Diagnosis usually involves a patient’s medical history, a physical exam, and may include imaging tests like ultrasound to assess plaque size and location.
For a deeper dive into the causes, symptoms, and latest treatments, watch our most recent podcast episode to learn more:
Conventional Treatments for Peyronie’s Disease
Treatment for PD depends on the severity and the phase (acute or chronic) of the condition. Here are the main approaches:
Non-Surgical Treatments
1. FDA-Approved: Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum (Xiaflex®)
- Indication: Suitable for men with stable PD and curvature between 30-90
- Process: A series of injections to break down plaque, resulting in an average 34-38% reduction in curvature.
2. Other Treatments:
- Oral Medications: Medications like pentoxifylline may help but are often limited in
- Intralesional Injections: Direct injections into the plaque, such as Xiaflex®, help reduce scar tissue and improve curvature.
- Traction Devices: Mechanical devices used to stretch and remodel the
- Vacuum Erection Devices (VEDs): Helps improve length and curvature as part of combination therapy.
3. Surgical Treatments
Reserved for cases where non-surgical treatments are ineffective:
- Penile Plication: Straightens the penis by shortening one
- Plaque Excision with Grafting: Removes part of the plaque and grafts the area for normal contour.
- Penile Prosthesis: For men with both PD and ED, helping restore both structure and
Advanced Treatment Options in Knoxville, TN
Emerging therapies offer additional hope:
- Shockwave Therapy (Li-ESWT): Uses low-intensity shockwaves to encourage tissue repair and reduce curvature.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Injecting PRP into the plaque may help with healing and reduce
- Stem Cell Therapy: Still experimental, but shows promise for regenerating tissue and improving
AUA Guidelines for Peyronie’s Disease
The American Urological Association (AUA) offers a structured approach to PD treatment:
- Diagnosis: Involves physical examination, assessing curvature, and sometimes
- Treatment by Phase:
- Acute Phase: Focus on non-surgical methods such as traction and
- Chronic Phase: Xiaflex® injections and surgical
Peyronie’s Disease has various treatment options, from injections to advanced therapies and surgery, depending on the condition’s severity and phase. With new developments and a range of treatments, men affected by PD have access to therapies that improve both form and function.
Ready to explore how we can help? Visit Our Men’s Sexual Wellness Page on treatments, patient success stories, and how to book a consultation. Start your journey to better health and confidence today!