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Penile Curvature / Peyronie's

Penile Curvature / Peyronie’s

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Peyronie’s disease is an abnormal, and sometimes painful, curvature of the penis caused by hardened scar tissue in the penis.

The scar tissue prevents straightening of the penis, making the curvature most obvious during an erection. Normally, when the penis hardens and stretches, the skin and connective tissue of the penis remain loose and elastic to accommodate the changes. But the hardened scar tissue makes a normal straightening of the penis virtually impossible. The curvature may be so severe that it prevents penetration during intercourse.

Studies show that Peyronie’s disease can be found in up to 9 percent of men between the ages of 40 and 70. The incidence may be higher than that due to embarrassment and hesitancy to report the condition to doctors.

Peyronie’s (pronounced PAY-ROH-NEEZ) Disease (PD) is a condition where scar tissue forms in a layer of tissue under the skin of the penis that causes the penis to bend or curve when erect. In genetically susceptible men, PD may simply be caused by an injury to the penis, however, the exact cause of PD is unknown.

PD is common, and can occur at any age, but is most common in men aged 40 to 60. It is estimated that greater than 60,000 men have PD, unfortunately, only a small percentage of men seek treatment.

PD usually occurs in two stages, early and late. Early stages of PD occurs from the time of injury or onset of symptoms and can last 3 to 18 months. Symptoms during the early stage may be pain, a noticeable lump or bump, and/or a slowly developing curve or dent in the penis. Late-stage symptoms include less or no pain and stability of the curve or dent. In some cases, the curvature can cause painful erections, soft erections, and/or difficulty with intercourse for you and your partner.

PD can be evaluated at any stage, however, which recommended treatment will depend upon the following:

  • History of symptoms less than 6 months
  • History of symptoms greater than 6 months
  • The presence or absence of erectile dysfunction ED)

Treatment for PD can range from:

  • Observation
  • Oral medications
  • Injection therapy (Verapamil or Xiaflex®)
  • Penile Traction Therapy (Restorex®)
  • Surgical correction

In most cases, a combination of therapies will be recommended. The recommended treatment will be based on when your symptoms began, the findings of your imaging study, and your physical exam.

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