Penile Curvature (Peyronie’s Disease)
Penile curvature, also known as Peyronie’s disease, is a condition in which fibrous scar tissue develops within the penis, causing an abnormal bend during erection.
This curvature can make sexual intercourse difficult or even impossible and may be associated with pain and erectile dysfunction.
Symptoms
The symptoms of penile curvature may include:
- Noticeable penile curvature: significant bending of the penis during erection, which can hinder or prevent sexual penetration.
- Penile pain: pain may occur during erections or even in the flaccid state.
- Presence of nodules or plaques: areas of hardened tissue can be felt beneath the penile skin.
- Erectile dysfunction: some men may have trouble achieving or maintaining an erection.
Diagnosis
El diagnòstic de la incurvació peniana habitualment inclou:
- Complete medical history: collection of information about symptoms, duration, and potential triggering factors.
- Physical examination: palpation of the penis to detect plaques or areas of fibrosis.
- Penile ultrasound: used to assess the extent of scar tissue and evaluate penile blood flow.
Treatment
Treatment options depend on the severity of the curvature and its impact on sexual function. They may include:
Observation and conservative management
- In mild cases where curvature does not prevent sexual activity and pain is minimal, active surveillance without immediate intervention may be appropriate.
Tractament farmacològic
- Intralesional injections: medications injected directly into plaques to reduce fibrosis and improve curvature.
Teràpia física
- Traction or vacuum devices: these devices may help stretch the penis and gradually reduce curvature over time.
Intervenció quirúrgica
- Nesbit procedure: excision of fibrous plaque to straighten the penis.
- Penile plication: a procedure that shortens the opposite side of the curvature to achieve penile straightening.
- Grafting: in cases of severe curvature, plaque excision with placement of a graft to restore penile length and shape.
- Penile implants: for men with significant curvature and erectile dysfunction, implants can both correct the deformity and restore erectile function.
