Penile Curvature / Peyronie’s Disease
Congenital Penile Curvature
- Definition: Curvature present since birth but noticeable only during erection.
- Onset: Becomes apparent during puberty or early adult life.
- Cause: Often due to abnormal development or positioning of penile tissues.
Peyronie’s Disease
Definition: Condition characterized by curvature of the penis due to scar-like tissue (plaque) formation.
Phases:
- Acute Phase: Initial phase with pain and active plaque formation, lasts up to about 18 months.
- Chronic Phase: Stable phase where symptoms stabilize, typically starting 12-18 months after onset.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Curvature of the penis
- Hard lumps (plaques) on one or more sides of the penis
- Painful erections
- Erectile dysfunction (no or soft erections)
Impact on Sex:
- Difficulty with intercourse due to the curvature or pain.
Treatment Options
Non-surgical Treatments
- Oral Medications: Used to reduce plaque formation or inflammation.
- Penile Traction Devices: Can help straighten the penis over time.
- Injections: Directly into the plaque to soften or reduce it.
Surgical Treatments
- Plication Surgery: Shortens the opposite side of the penis to straighten it.
- Graft Surgery: Uses a graft to lengthen the side of the penis with the plaque.
- Penile Implant Surgery: Straightens and maintains rigidity using a prosthetic device.
Penile curvature, whether congenital or due to Peyronie’s Disease, can significantly impact a man’s sexual health and quality of life. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and phase of the condition, ranging from non-surgical methods to surgical interventions aimed at correcting the curvature and improving sexual function. Consulting with a healthcare provider, particularly an Andrologist or Urologist, is crucial for proper diagnosis and management of these conditions.