Peyronie’s disease is a medical condition that affects the penis, causing a curvature or deformity of the organ during erection. The disease can result in pain, discomfort, and difficulty during sexual activity, causing a significant impact on the quality of life of affected individuals. Fortunately, various treatment options are available to manage the condition, including surgery, medication, and shockwave therapy.
Here are treatment options for Peyronie’s disease.
Medications
There are several medications that are used to treat Peyronie’s disease, including vitamin E, potassium aminobenzoate (POTABA), and colchicine. These medications are believed to help reduce the severity of the disease, although their effectiveness varies from person to person. Vitamin E has antioxidant properties and is believed to reduce the formation of scar tissue, which is responsible for the curvature of the penis. POTABA is also believed to reduce scar tissue formation, although it is often associated with gastrointestinal side effects. Colchicine, on the other hand, is an anti-inflammatory drug that may help reduce the inflammation associated with Peyronie’s disease.
Surgery
Surgery could be an option for individuals with severe Peyronie’s disease or those who have not responded to other treatment options. The most common surgical procedure for Peyronie’s disease is known as a Nesbit procedure, which involves removing a wedge-shaped piece of tissue from the side of the penis opposite the curvature. The procedure shortens the penis on the affected side, allowing it to straighten during erection. Another surgical option is the placement of a penile prosthesis, which involves surgically inserting an inflatable device into the penis to allow for an erection. Penile prosthesis placement is typically reserved for individuals who are suffering from both Peyronie’s disease and erectile dysfunction.
Shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy for Peyronie’s disease is a treatment option that involves the use of low-intensity shockwaves to break up scar tissue and promote the growth of new blood vessels. This therapy is a new treatment for Peyronie’s disease. The procedure is non-invasive and can be performed in an outpatient setting, making it an attractive option for many individuals. Shockwave therapy is typically performed using a device that emits low-intensity shockwaves to the penis. The procedure is painless and takes approximately 20–30 minutes to complete.
Shockwave treatment for Peyronie’s disease has been shown to be effective in clinical trials. A 2019 study found that shockwave therapy improved penile curvature and pain in individuals with Peyronie’s disease. Another study published in 2022 found that shockwave therapy improved erectile function and penile curvature in individuals with Peyronie’s disease.
Medical clinics
Medical clinics that specialise in the treatment of Peyronie’s disease use shockwave therapy with the latest technology to ensure safe and effective treatment. The clinics follow a treatment protocol that involves a series of shockwave therapy sessions, usually once a week for several weeks. The number of sessions required varies depending on the severity of the disease and the individual’s response to treatment. The procedure is typically painless and performed by a trained healthcare provider.
These clinics use the Duolith SD1 T-Top, a device specifically designed for treating Peyronie’s disease, which emits low-intensity shockwaves to the penis. This promotes the growth of new blood vessels and breaks up scar tissue. The device is FDA-approved for treating Peyronie’s disease and has been proven safe and effective in clinical trials.
In addition to shockwave therapy, these clinics offer a comprehensive approach to treating Peyronie’s disease. They provide pre-treatment evaluations, post-treatment follow-up, and ongoing support. The healthcare team comprises urologists, nurse practitioners, and other specialists who collaborate to provide individualized care for each patient.
Takeaway
Although Peyronie’s disease can be a challenging condition to manage, there are several treatment options available. Medications and surgery are traditional treatment options, but shockwave therapy has emerged as a promising non-invasive option for individuals with Peyronie’s disease.
Tim Williamson, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
