A little-known medical condition
Peyronie's Disease
, Urologist and Andrologist in Brussels
"You don't have to deal with this alone. There are various treatment options we can explore together."
Dr. Sam Ward
Peyronie's disease causes an abnormal curvature of the penis during an erection due to the formation of plaques or scar tissue. This can lead to pain, difficulties during sexual intercourse, and sometimes emotional distress. Although the condition is common, many men are reluctant to talk about it. But there are solutions.
Key Points
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Abnormal curvature of the penis during an erection, caused by plaques or scar tissue.
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May be accompanied by pain, difficulty during sexual intercourse, and erectile dysfunction.
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Common, but often overlooked. Many men don't talk about it.
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Diagnosis is made through a clinical examination and, in some cases, an ultrasound of the penis.
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Treatment options ranging from medication and shock wave therapy to injections and surgery.
Personalized Approach and Innovation
Every patient is unique, and a personalized approach to Peyronie’s disease is essential. Thanks to my involvement in various international and European associations, I stay up to date on the latest developments and innovative treatments.
Depending on the stage of the condition, the degree of curvature, your symptoms, and your expectations, various treatment options may be considered.
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Causes
The exact cause of Peyronie’s disease is not always clear, but several factors may contribute. Repeated trauma or microtrauma to the penis, often during sexual intercourse, can lead to injury and scarring. In addition, a genetic predisposition plays a role: some men are more susceptible due to their family history. Connective tissue disorders, such as Dupuytren’s contracture, can also occur alongside Peyronie’s disease.
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Symptoms
The main signs are a curvature of the penis during an erection—upward, downward, or to the side—and pain during an erection or sexual intercourse. In some cases, there is a reduction in penis size, and sometimes difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. These symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly. If you notice any curvature or pain, consult a specialist.
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Diagnosis
The diagnosis is based on a clinical examination and, in some cases, an ultrasound of the penis to visualize the scar tissue and measure the curvature. During the examination, we assess the degree of curvature and its impact on your daily life. An accurate diagnosis is essential for choosing the best treatment.
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Treatments
Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and their impact on your quality of life. A personalized approach is essential, as every patient is different. The main options:
- Medication: pills or injections directly into the plaque can reduce pain and stabilize the curvature.
- Shockwave therapy (LI-ESWT): Acoustic waves improve blood circulation and soften the plaques, which can help improve the curvature.
- Intraplaque injections: Injections into the plaque itself, aimed at breaking down fibrous tissue and reducing the curvature. In Belgium, PRP combined with hyaluronic acid is one of the treatments used for this.
- Surgery: for severe curvature that affects sexual function. There are two types: plication (straightening the penis by folding the side opposite the curvature, usually for less severe curvature) and penile grafts or implants (for more severe cases, using graft tissue or a penile implant).
Important to know: Not every treatment is suitable for every patient, and the level of scientific evidence varies by method. Shockwave therapy may help alleviate pain, but its effect on the curvature itself is limited and is still being studied. Collagenase injections (Xiapex®) are no longer available in Belgium. Surgery is only considered once the condition has been stable for at least six months. The appropriate approach for your situation will be determined by an individual medical evaluation.