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
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
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
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!
