The management of Peyronie's disease: evidence-based 2010 guidelines

Penile sonoelastography for the localization of a non-palpable, non-sonographically visualized lesion in a patient with penile curvature from Peyronie's disease

INTRODUCTION

Sonoelastography is an emerging ultrasound-based technique that allows characterization of tissue stiffness.

AIM

The aim of this report is to present a case of significant penile curvature with a non-palpable, non-sonographically visualized plaque that was demonstrable with sonoelastography.

METHODS

A 60-year-old male presented with significant left penile curvature during erections. The penis was evaluated with physical exam followed by B-mode and color Doppler ultrasound. No evidence of plaque was identified with these modalities. Shear wave sonoelastography was pursued to further characterize the patient's Peyronie's disease.

RESULTS

An area of increased tissue stiffness that correlated with the site of maximum curvature was identified with shear wave sonoelastography and used to target intralesional injection therapy.

CONCLUSION

Sonoelastography provides an additional way to characterize, localize, and deliver therapy to a lesion in patients with Peyronie's disease and is particularly useful when palpation and B-mode ultrasonography have failed to demonstrate a plaque.

Concordance between patient and physician assessment of the magnitude of Peyronie's disease curvature

INTRODUCTION

The magnitude of penile deformity is a critically important factor in Peyronie's disease, as it is associated with increased difficulty in penetrative sexual intercourse and in turn with negative psychosocial consequences. Deformity magnitude also influences treatment choice when surgical correction is indicated.

AIM

To determine the concordance between patient and physician assessment of magnitude of penile curvature in men with Peyronie's disease.

METHODS

Patient assessment of curvature was obtained at initial interview. Physician assessment was performed using intracavernosal injection-assisted erection using a goniometer applied during excellent penile rigidity.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Patient and physician assessments of penile curvature.

RESULTS

The sample consisted of 192 men with a mean age of 54 ± 12 years old. Mean curvature on patient and physician assessment was 33 ± 17 and 36 ± 18 degrees, respectively. Only 49% of patients (94) correctly assessed their curvature, whereas 35% underestimated and 16% overestimated it.

CONCLUSIONS

Only half of PD patients accurately assess their penile curvature, with more than twice as many patients underestimating it than overestimating it. These data suggest that patient self-reporting of penile curvature should not be used as a clinical marker or end point in Peyronie's disease trials.

Peyronie's disease plaque calcification--prevalence, time to identification, and development of a new grading classification

INTRODUCTION

Peyronie's disease (PD) is a connective tissue disorder of the penis in which a fibrous scar in the tunica albuginea can result in multiple penile deformities.

AIM

The study aims to investigate the prevalence and time to identification of plaque calcification (PC) in our PD patient population and whether stratification of calcification based on severity seen on ultrasound would serve as a predictor of treatment progression to surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 1,041 men presenting with PD from 1993 to 2009 was performed. Eight hundred thirty-four underwent penile duplex ultrasound.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

PC was graded as: grade 1 (<0.3 cm), grade 2 (>0.3 cm, <1.5 cm), grade 3 (>1.5 cm; or ≥ 2 plaques >1.0 cm). A matched control group with noncalcified plaques (n = 236) was selected for comparison.

RESULTS

Two hundred eighty-four men (34%) were found to have PC noted on ultrasound, and 98 had fully documented dimensions of the PC. Forty-one percent were found to have grade 1, 28% grade 2, and 32% grade 3. When analyzed by grade and progression to surgery, 23% of grade 1, 32% of grade 2, and 55% of grade 3 patients had surgery. Those with grade 3 PC were more likely to undergo surgical intervention for PD (OR 2.28 95% CI 1.07-4.86) and more likely to undergo a grafting procedure than control patients (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Men with PC are not more likely to undergo surgery than those without PC (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.58-1.57). PC is not uncommon, as it was found in 34% of our cohort. PC does not appear to be an indication of mature or stable disease, as it was identified by ultrasound in 37% of patients less than 12 months after onset of symptoms. Men with grade 3 PC have an increased likelihood of progression to surgical intervention and a higher likelihood of undergoing a grafting procedure.

[Current therapeutic options for Peyronie's disease]

Peyronie's disease is a heterogeneous disorder with typical symptoms of plaque formation, penile pain, deviation, penile shortening and erectile dysfunction. The etiology is unknown. Repetitive microtraumatic lesions with the formation of inelastic scar tissue at the level of the tunica albuginea are discussed as a trigger mechanism for a questionable genetic disposition. A non-surgical therapy based on a clear pathophysiology does not exist although several conservative treatment regimes are practiced. In the stable stage of the disease surgical therapy of penile angulation is the most frequent operation. Depending on the deviation angle, penile length and erectile dysfunction, different types of straightening surgery can be offered. This article provides an overview of conservative management and commonly used surgical techniques.

The pathophysiology of Peyronie's disease

OBJECTIVE

To review the contemporary knowledge of the pathophysiology of Peyronie's disease (PD).

METHODS

Medline was searched for papers published in English from 2000 to March 2013, using the keywords 'Peyronie's disease' and 'pathophysiology'.

RESULTS

More than 300 relevant articles were identified for the purpose of this review. Unfortunately only a few studies had a high level of evidence, and the remaining studies were not controlled in their design. Many theories have been proposed to explain the cause of PD, but the true pathogenesis of PD remains an enigma. Identifying particular growth factors and the specific genes responsible for the induction of PD have been the ultimate goal of research over the past several decades. This would provide the means to devise a possible gene therapy for this devastating condition. We discuss present controversies and new discoveries related to the pathophysiology of this condition.

CONCLUSION

PD is one of the most puzzling diseases in urology. The pathogenesis remains uncertain and there is still controversy about the best management. The pathogenesis of PD has been explored in animal models, cell cultures and clinical trials, but the results have led to further questions. New research on the aetiology and pathogenesis of PD is needed, and which will hopefully improve the understanding and management for patients with this frustrating disease.

Understanding the course of Peyronie's disease

AIMS

To correct common misconceptions about Peyronie's disease (PD) that present obstacles to early recognition and treatment.

METHODS

The prevalence, natural disease course, psychosocial effects and treatment considerations for patients with PD were reviewed.

RESULTS

Studies over the past decade have shown that the prevalence of PD may be higher (up to 20%) than previously thought. PD can lead to emotional and relationship distress. Nearly 10% of men who present with PD are younger than 40. Both younger age and comorbid vascular disease have been associated with more severe and progressive PD. In the majority of patients, symptoms will either deteriorate or remain stable. PD is often associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). Effective, minimally invasive treatments used early in the disease course include unapproved and/or investigational intralesional injection therapy with verapamil, interferon (IFN) α-2b, or collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH). Surgical intervention is considered in patients with ED and/or penile deformity that impairs sexual functioning; however, preoperative discussion of appropriate expectations is important.

DISCUSSION

The availability of effective minimally invasive and surgical therapies for PD suggests that active management should be considered over a 'wait-and-see' approach.

CONCLUSION

Providing early intervention and improved education/awareness of PD as a chronic and progressive disorder may result in improved physical and psychosocial outcomes for PD patients. As general practitioners are often the first contact for men with PD, they are well positioned to recognise symptoms early and promptly refer patients for further evaluation and treatment.

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy in Peyronie's disease: results of a placebo-controlled, prospective, randomized, single-blind study

INTRODUCTION

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) for treatment of Peyronie's disease (PD) is controversial.

AIM

To study the efficacy of ESWT by a placebo-controlled, randomized trial.

METHODS

Patients with PD (n=102) were randomly assigned (n=51) to each group (ESWT or placebo). All patients were given 6 weekly treatments. Patients in the ESWT-group received 2,000 shock waves per session, using the Piezoson 100 lithotripter (Richard Wolf, Knittlingen, Germany). Patients in the placebo-group were treated with interposition of a plastic membrane, which prevented any transmission of shock waves.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary end point was decrease of pain between baseline and after 4 weeks follow-up. Secondary end points were changes in deviation, plaque size, and sexual function. Pain was assessed by a visual analog scale. Deviation was measured by a goniometer after artificial erection using Alprostadil (Viridal®, Schwarz Pharma, Monheim, Germany). Plaque size was measured with a ruler and sexual function assessed by a scale regarding the ability to perform sexual intercourse.

RESULTS

Overall, only 45 patients experienced pain at baseline. In the subgroup analysis of these patients, pain decreased in 17/20 (85.0%) patients in the ESWT group and 12/25 (48.0%) patients in the placebo group (P=0.013, relative risk [RR]=0.29, 95% confidence interval: 0.09-0.87). Penile deviation was not reduced by ESWT (P=0.66) but worsened in 20/50 (40%) and 12/49 (24.5%) patients of the ESWT and placebo-group, respectively (P=0.133). Plaque size reduction was not different between the two groups (P=0.33). Additional, plaque size increased in five patients (10.9%) of the ESWT group only. An improvement in sexual function could not be verified (P=0.126, RR=0.46).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite some potential benefit of ESWT in regard to pain reduction, it should be emphasized that pain usually resolves spontaneously with time. Given this and the fact that deviation may worsen with ESWT, this treatment cannot be recommended.

Treatments for fibrosis of the corpora cavernosa

Introduction

Corporal fibrosis usually occurs after explantation of an infected penile prosthesis, severe penile trauma, refractory low-flow priapism, Peyronie’s disease, or the chronic intracavernous injection of vasoactive drugs.

Methods

We analysed current treatmentss for penile fibrosis. We searched PubMed using the keywords ’penile corporal fibrosis’, ’treatment’ and ’penile fibrosis’, resulting in 63 matches, of which 19 articles met the inclusion criteria.

Results and conclusions

This review covers conservative medical therapy for corporal fibrosis and surgical therapeutic methods. The roles of phosphodiesterase- 5 inhibitors and pentoxifylline are analysed. Surgical therapy includes implantation of a penile prosthesis and corporal reconstruction, and these are reviewed. Corporal fibrosis is a major problem for patients, and is associated with severe erectile dysfunction. Conservative treatment options can be applicable in the early phase, but simultaneous corporal reconstruction procedures with concomitant implantation of a penile prosthesis should be attempted in severe cases of corporal fibrosis.

Peyronie's disease: A contemporary review of non-surgical treatment

In this review I discuss the current non-surgical treatment options for Peyronie’s disease (PD), which remains a therapeutic dilemma for the treating physician. This is despite a large array of treatments that have been used since the time of de la Peyronie in the mid-18th century. Part of the problem with finding an effective treatment is the incomplete understanding of the aetiopathophysiology of this scarring disorder. Published articles in peer-reviewed journals were assessed, recognising that most of the reported trials are compromised by being single-centre studies with no placebo control. Various treatment options have emerged, most with limited and unreliable benefit, but a few treatments have shown a consistent, albeit incomplete, response rate. Currently the only scientifically sensible oral agents appear to be pentoxifylline, l-arginine, and possibly the phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors. The current intralesional injection treatment options include verapamil and interferon, with a reported benefit in reducing deformity and improving sexual function. Intralesional clostridial collagenase is in the midst of phase-3 trial analysis by the USA Food and Drug Administration. External mechanical traction therapy has recently emerged as a technique to reduce the curvature, recover lost length, and possibly obviate surgery. Currently there is no clear, reliable and effective non-surgical treatment for PD, but it appears that several of the available treatments can reduce the deformity and improve sexual function, and might at least stabilise the disease process.

A critical analysis of the surgical outcomes for the treatment of Peyronie's disease

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a relatively common condition, which can impair sexual function and result in emotional and psychological distress. Despite an abundance of minimally invasive treatments, few have confirmed efficacy for improving penile curvature and function. Surgical therapies include many different techniques and are reserved for patients with stable disease of ⩾12 months’ duration. We searched PubMed for all articles from 1990 to the present relating to the surgical management of PD. Preference was given to recent articles, larger series, and those comparing various techniques and/or materials. Outcomes were subsequently analysed and organised by surgical technique and the graft material used. Available surgical techniques include plication/corporoplasty procedures, incision and grafting (I&G), and placing a penile prosthesis with or without adjunctive procedures. Although several surgical algorithms have been reported, in general, plication/corporoplasty procedures are reserved for patients with adequate erectile function, simple curvatures of <60°, and with no deformities (hour-glass, hinge). I&G are reserved for complex curvatures of >60° and those with deformities. Penile prostheses are indicated for combined erectile dysfunction and PD. Overall outcomes show high rates of improved curvature and patient satisfaction, with mildly decreased erectile function with both plication and the I&G procedure (I&G >plication) and decreases in penile length (plication >I&G). Surgical management of PD remains an excellent treatment option for patients with penile curvature precluding or impairing sexual activity. Surgical algorithms are available to assist treating clinicians in appropriately stratifying surgical candidates. Additional research is needed to identify optimal surgical techniques and materials based on patient and disease characteristics.

Surgical Management for Peyronie's Disease

Peyronie's disease is a common debilitating condition for both men and their partners that results in penile deformity and compromises sexual functioning. While there are a myriad of medical therapeutic options, these have not been demonstrated to correct the deformity and restore sexual function definitively. As such, surgery is the mainstay of treatment for this disease, and multiple surgical approaches may be considered depending on disease characteristics, patient co-morbidity, and findings on preoperative diagnostic testing. The purpose of this review is to highlight the different surgical approaches and different procedures within each approach, and to examine important issues for surgeons to consider for administering the best treatment that restores function while reconciling patient expectations.

A novel PI3K inhibitor alleviates fibrotic responses in fibroblasts derived from Peyronie's plaques

Peyronie's disease (PD) is fibrosis localized in the tunica albuginea that is characterized by penile deformity and curvature. The pathogenesis of this disease remains unclear even though transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/smad signalling has been reported to be associated with PD. Recent studies have shown that phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signalling regulates fibrotic responses including collagen synthesis and cell proliferation. Thus, we synthesized HS-173, a novel PI3K inhibitor, and determined whether this compound has anti-fibrotic effects on PD-derived primary fibroblasts. In this study, we found that HS-173 inhibited the growth of fibroblasts in a dose-dependent manner and induced apoptosis. In addition, HS-173 reduced the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), vimentin, PAI-1, fibronectin, collagen type I, collagen IV and TGF-β-activated smad2/3 in PD-derived primary fibroblasts. HS-173 blocked the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway by decreasing the activation of Akt, mTOR and P70S6K. Our results showed that HS-173 suppressed fibrotic responses such as cell proliferation and collagen synthesis by blocking PI3K/Akt signalling in PD-derived primary fibroblasts. Our findings provide molecular insights into the potential therapeutic action of HS-173 through targeting the PI3K/Akt pathway in PD-derived fibroblasts and demonstrated that HS-173 could be used as a pharmacological agent for treating other fibrotic diseases.

Validity and reliability of a smartphone application for the assessment of penile deformity in Peyronie's disease

INTRODUCTION

Available methods to evaluate men with Peyronie's disease (PD) are limited by the inability to accurately and reproducibly measure penile deformity. AIM.: The study aims to evaluate the performance of a smartphone application for the measurement of penile curvature and narrowing.

METHODS

A smartphone application, the University of Washington Peyronie's Examination Network (UWPEN), was developed for this purpose. To assess penile curvature, 15 single cylinders of malleable penile prostheses were molded to varying curvature angles. Three blinded observers nonsequentially measured the angle of curvature for each prosthetic cylinder using a protractor, goniometer, and UWPEN. To assess girth narrowing, six clay models of the penile shaft were constructed to represent conditions of normal, partial hourglass, circumferential hourglass, and pencil narrowing. Girth was measured using a ruler and UWPEN by the same blinded observers.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Statistical analyses compared intertest, interobserver, and intraobserver reliability using the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC). An ICC above 0.75 indicates excellent reproducibility among measurements.

RESULTS

Intertest reliability for angle measurements yielded an ICC for the three methods of 1.000. Separately, the ICC for UWPEN vs. the goniometer and protractor was 0.999 and 0.999, respectively. The interobserver ICC for UWPEN, goniometer, and protractor was 0.998, 0.999, and 1.000, respectively. Intertest reliability for girth narrowing measurements yielded an ICC of 0.991. The interobserver ICC for girth narrowing for UWPEN and the ruler was 0.978 and 0.986, respectively. Intraobserver ICC for angle measurements and girth narrowing showed high reliability for all observers and methods.

CONCLUSIONS

The performance of UWPEN is comparable with and highly correlated with angle measurements obtained from the goniometer and protractor as well as with girth narrowing measurements obtained from a ruler. Measurements are reproducible among different observers. UWPEN may provide a noninvasive, accurate, reliable, and widely accessible method to characterize and track PD over time.

Peyronie's disease: contemporary review of non-surgical treatment

BACKGROUND

Peyronie's disease (PD) remains a therapeutic dilemma for the treating physician. This is in spite of a large array of treatments which have been used since the time of de la Peyronie in the mid 18(th) century. Part of this problem is due to an incomplete understanding of the etiopathophysiology of this scarring disorder. Having a better understanding of the how and why the scarring occurs may help prevent progression, but ultimately reversing the existing scar remains the real challenge.

METHODS

This review discusses the current non-surgical treatment options for Peyronie's disease. Published articles in peer-reviewed journals are used, recognizing that the majority of the published trials are compromised by being single-center studies without a placebo control.

RESULTS

A variety of treatments options have emerged, most with limited and unreliable benefit, but a few treatments have shown a consistent albeit incomplete response rate. Could this suggest that all PD is not the same and that the heterogeneous nature of this scarring disorder may account for why some patients respond and others do not? Further investigation of this diverse response rate may yield insights into the pathophysiology of PD. In the meantime, there have been many oral treatments offered for PD. Currently the only scientifically sensible treatments appear to be pentoxifylline, L-arginine, and possibly the phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors. Intralesional injection has been used for many years. The current treatment options include verapamil and interferon, with reported benefit with respect to reduced deformity and improved sexual function. Intralesional clostridial collagenase is in the midst of phase 3 trial analysis by the FDA in the USA and may become the newest and only FDA approved treatment for Peyronie's disease. External mechanical traction therapy has also recently emerged as a technique to reduce curvature, recover lost length, enhance girth, and possibly obviate surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

It appears at this time that there is no clear, reliable and effective non-surgical treatment for Peyronie's disease, but it does appear from the published literature that several of the available treatments can result in reduction of deformity, improved sexual function, and may at a minimum stabilize the disease process so that deformity does not get worse particularly during the acute phase of this scarring disorder. Combination therapy in an effort to create a synergy between the chemical effects of oral and injectable drugs with the mechanical effects of external traction therapy may provide the best opportunity today for reduction of deformity in the man with Peyronie's disease.

Penile prosthesis implantation and tunica albuginea incision without grafting in the treatment of Peyronie's disease with erectile dysfunction

We evaluated penile prosthesis implantation with tunica albuginea-relaxing incisions without grafting in the treatment of Peyronie's disease associated with erectile dysfunction. Between April 2005 and June 2011, 62 patients underwent surgery due to severe Peyronie's disease associated with erectile dysfunction. Malleable and inflatable penile prostheses were inserted in 49 and 13 cases, respectively. Penile prostheses were inserted into the corpora cavernosa using the standard ventral approach. After lifting the neurovascular bundle, the tunica albuginea was incised and opened at the plaque region to correct the deformities and to lengthen the penis. Subsequently, the wide neurovascular bundle was replaced, and all incisions of the tunica albuginea were covered to prevent corporal grafting. In the median follow-up of 35 months (range 14-82 months), the penis was completely straightened in 59 (95%) patients. Numbness of the glans, which the patients found initially upsetting, decreased or disappeared spontaneously 3-6 months later. Penile prosthesis implantation with tunica albuginea incisions is a viable alternative in the treatment of Peyronie's disease because the extensive dissection of the neurovascular bundle allows a good approach to the plaque and provides excellent covering of the incised tunica albuginea without additional grafting.

Penile traction therapy and Peyronie's disease: a state of art review of the current literature

In recent years, penile traction therapy (PTT) has gained considerable interest as a novel nonsurgical treatment option for men with Peyronie's disease (PD) and short penises. The current published literature suggests that selected cases of PD may benefit from a conservative approach with PTT, resulting in increased penile length and reduction of penile deformity. It appears to be safe and well tolerated but requires a great deal of patient compliance and determination. This article reviews the current literature pertaining to the use of PTT in men with PD, short penises and in the setting of pre- and postprosthesis corporal fibrosis.

Clinical efficacy, safety and tolerability of collagenase clostridium histolyticum for the treatment of peyronie disease in 2 large double-blind, randomized, placebo controlled phase 3 studies

PURPOSE

IMPRESS (Investigation for Maximal Peyronie's Reduction Efficacy and Safety Studies) I and II examined the clinical efficacy and safety of collagenase Clostridium histolyticum intralesional injections in subjects with Peyronie disease. Co-primary outcomes in these identical phase 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled studies included the percent change in the penile curvature abnormality and the change in the Peyronie disease questionnaire symptom bother score from baseline to 52 weeks.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

IMPRESS I and II examined collagenase C. histolyticum intralesional injections in 417 and 415 subjects, respectively, through a maximum of 4 treatment cycles, each separated by 6 weeks. Men received up to 8 injections of 0.58 mg collagenase C. histolyticum, that is 2 injections per cycle separated by approximately 24 to 72 hours with the second injection of each followed 24 to 72 hours later by penile plaque modeling. Men were stratified by baseline penile curvature (30 to 60 vs 61 to 90 degrees) and randomized to collagenase C. histolyticum or placebo 2:1 in favor of the former.

RESULTS

Post hoc meta-analysis of IMPRESS I and II data revealed that men treated with collagenase C. histolyticum showed a mean 34% improvement in penile curvature, representing a mean ± SD -17.0 ± 14.8 degree change per subject, compared with a mean 18.2% improvement in placebo treated men, representing a mean -9.3 ± 13.6 degree change per subject (p <0.0001). The mean change in Peyronie disease symptom bother score was significantly improved in treated men vs men on placebo (-2.8 ± 3.8 vs -1.8 ± 3.5, p = 0.0037). Three serious adverse events (corporeal rupture) were surgically repaired.

CONCLUSIONS

IMPRESS I and II support the clinical efficacy and safety of collagenase C. histolyticum for the physical and psychological aspects of Peyronie disease.

Corporoplasty with small soft axial prostheses (VIRILIS I®) and bovine pericardial graft (HYDRIX®) in Peyronie's disease

The surgical techniques used by Austoni and Egydio in the treatment of Peyronie's disease are based on geometric principles. The aim of this paper is to report our multicentric experience and technical changes to Austoni's original technique, focusing on several tips and tricks to make this technique easy to perform, even by less experienced practitioners. We performed operations in three different Italian institutions. We implanted a small soft Virilis I® axial prostheses (Ø 7 Fr.), using a bovine pericardium collagen matrix patch (Hydrix®) to cover the defect in the tunica albuginea. Sixty patients with a mean age of 58 years (range 44-76 years) underwent surgery between September 2005 and January 2010. After surgery, mean lengthening of the shaft was 2 cm (range 1.2-2.3 cm) with complete correction of penile recurvatum. Thirty-nine patients resumed sexual activity 60 days later, 14 after 90 days and 7 after 120 days. The international index of erectile function (IIEF) score was 15.5 before surgery and it improved to 23 at 12 and 24 months after surgery. Furthermore, the visual analogue scale (VAS) showed good results in terms of the recovery of natural sexual intercourse (over 80% of couples) and of the original length and girth of the penis. The soft implant we used takes advantage of erection that occurs spontaneously, using the residual erection of the spared cavernous tissue. The method is easy to learn and reproducible, and the use of pericardium speeds up the operation, while also covering large defects of the tunica albuginea that result from complex recurvatum.

Current and emerging treatment options for Peyronie's disease

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a condition of the penis, characterized by the presence of localized fibrotic plaque in the tunica albuginea. PD is not an uncommon disorder, with recent epidemiologic studies documenting a prevalence of 3–9% of adult men affected. The actual prevalence of PD may be even higher. It is often associated with penile pain, anatomical deformities in the erect penis, and difficulty with intromission. As the definitive pathophysiology of PD has not been completely elucidated, further basic research is required to make progress in the understanding of this enigmatic condition. Similarly, research on effective therapies is limited. Currently, nonsurgical treatments are used for those men who are in the acute stage of PD, whereas surgical options are reserved for men with established PD who cannot successfully penetrate. Intralesional treatments are growing in clinical popularity as a minimally invasive approach in the initial treatment of PD. A surgical approach should be considered when men with PD do not respond to conservative, medical, or minimally invasive therapies for approximately 1 year and cannot have satisfactory sexual intercourse. As scientific breakthroughs in the understanding of the mechanisms of this disease process evolve, novel treatments for the many men suffering with PD are anticipated.

Standard operating procedures for Peyronie's disease

INTRODUCTION

Peyronie's disease (PD) refers to a penile deformity that is associated with sexual dysfunction.

AIM

To provide recommendations and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) based on best evidence for diagnosis and treatment of PD.

METHODS

Medical literature was reviewed and combined with expert opinion of the authors.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Recommendations and SOPs based on grading of evidence-based medical literature.

RESULTS

PD is a fibrotic wound-healing disorder involving the tunica albuginea of the corpora cavernosa. The resulting scar is responsible for a variety of deformities, including curvature, shortening, narrowing with hinge effect, and is frequently associated in the early phase with pain. Patients frequently experience diminished quality erections. All of these conditions can compromise sexual function for the affected male. The etiopathophysiology of PD has yet to be clarified and as a result, effective, reliable, mechanistic directed non-surgical therapy is lacking.

CONCLUSIONS

The management of PD consists of proper diagnosis and treatment, ranging from non-surgical to surgical interventions. The main state of treatment for PD rests at this time on surgical correction that should be based on clear indications, involve surgical consent, and follow a surgical algorithm that includes tunica plication, plaque incision/partial excision and grafting, and penile prosthesis implantation.

Surgery for Peyronie's disease

Peyronie's disease (PD) is most simply referred to as a fibrotic wound-healing disorder of the tunica albuginea. It is both a physically and psychologically devastating disorder that causes penile deformity, curvature, hinging, narrowing and shortening, which may compromise sexual function. Although a variety of non-surgical treatments have been suggested, none to date offer a reliable and effective correction of the penile deformity. As a result, surgery remains the gold standard treatment option, offering the most rapid and reliable treatment which will be the focus of this article. We review the preoperative evaluation, surgical algorithm, graft materials and postoperative management of PD. Outcomes for tunical shortening, tunical lengthening and penile prosthesis placement for penile straightening are reviewed. Tunica albuginea plication is the preferred method of straightening for men with adequate rigidity and less severe disease defined as curvature less than 70° without narrowing/hinging. Men who have more severe, complex deformity, but maintain strong preoperative erectile function should be considered candidates for straightening with plaque incision or partial excision and grafting. Finally, for those men who have inadequate rigidity and PD, penile prosthesis placement with straightening is the best approach to address both problems.

Psychological impact of Peyronie's disease: a review

INTRODUCTION

Peyronie's disease (PD) is characterized by an accumulation of scar tissue in the tunica albuginea of the penis that causes curvature and deformity. PD can result in psychological distress, depression, or anxiety, which often goes untreated.

AIMS

To review the current literature on the psychological impact of PD, educate healthcare providers about the psychological components of the disease, and propose interventions that address the psychological and sexual challenges patients and their partners may encounter.

METHODS

We performed a MEDLINE search, limited to English, using the terms "Peyronie's disease" AND "psychological" OR "psychosocial," and select references were included for review.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Critical review of the currently available English language literature.

RESULTS

PD and its associated deformity often impairs sexual relations and frequently leads to psychological and psychosocial sequelae for affected individuals. Many men experience depression, low self-esteem, and emotional distress; these problems markedly diminish the quality of life for affected individuals. The literature suggests that as many as 81% of men report "emotional difficulties," 48% report clinically meaningful depression (26% moderate; 21% severe), and 54% report relationship problems due to PD. The challenges imposed by PD include alterations in sexual relationships, restrictions on intimacy, social isolation, and stigmatization, all of which are linked and reinforce each other. Physicians may be unaware of the psychological sequelae suffered by patients and their partners.

CONCLUSIONS

Improved awareness and education about the psychological consequences and treatment options for PD are necessary among healthcare providers. To best help patients and optimize outcomes, a team-based approach is needed that includes psychosocial assessment and appropriate resource referrals for the patient and his sexual partner.

Penile length and girth restoration in severe Peyronie's disease using circular and longitudinal grafting

OBJECTIVE

To report patient outcomes and satisfaction with our technique for penile length and girth restoration in severe Peyronie's disease (PD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between November 2006 and November 2011, 105 men with severe PD and erectile dysfunction (ED) underwent surgical correction using our new approach. The technique consists of penile prosthesis implantation with concomitant penile lengthening and girth restoration through circular and longitudinal incisions in the tunica albuginea according to geometric principles.

RESULTS

The overall patient satisfaction rate was 89.4%. The mean (sd; range) functional penile length gain was 3.6 (0.7; 2-5) cm. Patient satisfaction with penile length gain was 95.2%. Three patients (2.9%) developed retraction with residual curvature of up to 30°, but no re-operation was necessary. In one (1%) patient, the prosthesis had to be removed because of wound infection. At a mean (sd; range) follow-up of 18.2 (5.9; 6-46) months, 104 patients (99%) were able to have sexual intercourse.

CONCLUSIONS

Our surgical approach for penile length and girth restoration leads to high patient satisfaction rates and excellent functional outcomes. Our surgical approach is a safe and valid therapeutic method for the treatment of severe PD associated with ED.

Favorable patient reported outcomes after penile plication for wide array of peyronie disease abnormalities

PURPOSE

We present patient reported outcomes from our 5-year experience using penile plication to correct a wide variety of Peyronie disease malformations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed the records of all men who underwent penile plication for Peyronie disease, as performed by one of us (AFM). All patients were treated with tunical plication without penile degloving via a 2 cm longitudinal penile incision regardless of curvature severity or erectile function. A concomitant inflatable penile prosthesis was placed in men with refractory erectile dysfunction. A questionnaire was administered to assess the patient perception of postoperative penile curvature, length, rigidity and adequacy for intercourse.

RESULTS

Of 154 treated patients 78 (51%) and 65 (42%) had simple (less than 60 degrees) and complex (biplanar curvature, or curvature 60 degrees or greater) malformation, respectively, while 11 (7%) underwent plication plus inflatable penile prosthesis placement. A total of 132 patients responded to the questionnaire a mean 14 months after surgery. Overall, 96% of patients reported curvature improvement after penile plication, 93% reported erection adequate for sexual intercourse and 95% considered that the overall condition improved after surgery. Despite a significant difference in the number of plication sutures (mean 10 vs 7) and curvature angle correction (mean 57 vs 30 degrees, each p <0.005), self-reported outcomes of complex cases were equivalent to those of simple cases. While 84% of patients had no measureable decrease in stretched penile length, 103 of 154 (78%) reported a perceived penile length reduction after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Penile plication without degloving is effective for correcting a wide variety of Peyronie disease malformations. It can be safely combined with inflatable penile prosthesis placement.

Tunica albuginea underlap--a new modification of the Nesbit procedure: description of the technique and preliminary results

INTRODUCTION

We describe a new surgical technique for the treatment of penile curvature that combines features of the Nesbit procedure with features of tunical plication. U-shaped flaps of tunica albuginea are freed from the corpus cavernosum. The flaps are brought under the remaining tunica albuginea and are fixated with single absorbable sutures. As the defects of the tunica are sealed tightly and with high tensile strength by double layers of tunica albuginea, correction of the abnormal curvature is achieved.

AIM

To present our experience with a new surgical technique for the treatment of penile curvature.

METHODS

Between 2008 and 2011, 50 patients underwent the underlap technique because of Peyronie's disease (37) or congenital penile deviation (13) in a single center.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Preoperative and postoperative evaluation included the Erection Hardness Score (EHS) and the Symptom Score for Induratio penis plastica (IPP-SSC), a symptom score for penile deviation that was based on a consensus of regional andrologists. Clinical data concerning the early postoperative outcome were analyzed retrospectively using standardized items.

RESULTS

Mean age ± standard deviation was 59.7 ± 8.4 years for patients with Peyronie's disease and 34.1 ± 7.8 years for patients with congenital penile deviation. The mean follow-up period was 27 months. The major complication rate was 4%, overall satisfaction 86%. Intraoperative correction of the curvature was achieved in 100%, significant relapse occurred in 6%. The mean difference of preoperative and postoperative IPP-SSC was 8.1 (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.24 to 8.96). The mean difference of preoperative and postoperative EHC was -0.03 (95% CI -0.16 to 0.09).

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary results obtained with the underlap technique showed promising outcome with minimal morbidity. The new technique might have three main advantages: more flexible intraoperative correctability of the curvature, tighter sealing of the tunical defects, and greater tensile strength of the plications.

A retrospective comparative study of traction therapy vs. no traction following tunica albuginea plication or partial excision and grafting for Peyronie's disease: measured lengths and patient perceptions

INTRODUCTION

Loss of penile length is a recognized and common consequence of Peyronie's disease (PD). Traction therapy (TT+) has been reported to decrease post-op length loss as well as increase stretched penile length (SPL) prior to surgery.

AIM

The aim of this study was to study patient outcomes with penile length change and patient satisfaction after surgery following tunica albuginea plication (TAP) and partial plaque excision and grafting (PEG) with or without postoperative TT.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis was performed from our cohort of Peyronie's reconstructive surgery between 2007 and 2010. SPL was measured dorsally from pubis to corona and recorded at the initial office visit and then compared to most recent postoperative visit. Patients were then stratified by procedure and whether TT was used (TT+ and TT-; TAP N = 52 [27 TT+ and 25 TT-] and PEG N = 59 [36 TT+ and 23 TT-). Traction therapy was initiated for >2 hours a day for 3 months typically starting 3-4 weeks postoperatively. A non-validated mailed questionnaire assessed patient perceptions.

RESULTS

Mean length change seen in TAP (TT+) was 0.85 cm (0.25-1.75) vs. -0.53 cm (-1.75 to 0.5) in TAP (TT-) (P < 0.001). The mean length change seen in PEG (TT+) was 1.48 cm (0-6) vs. PEG (TT-) 0.24 cm (-1 to 2.5 cm) (P < 0.001). Sixty-one percent of surveys were returned; 85% lost length prior to the initial office evaluation, with an average of -2.5 cm lost. Importantly, in those who used traction, there was no perceived length loss, 58% reported a mean erect length gain of 1.1 cm. However, only 54% of all patients were satisfied with their current erect length.

CONCLUSIONS

Loss of length in men with PD remains a serious concern. It appears that postoperative TT can result in length preservation, and in many, a measured and perceived length gain following correction of the curvature.

Simultaneous total corporal reconstruction and implantation of a penile prosthesis in patients with erectile dysfunction and severe fibrosis of the corpora cavernosa

INTRODUCTION

Implantation of a penile prosthesis in severely scarred corporal bodies represents a great challenge as fibrosis can compromise dilatation and subsequent closure of the corpora cavernosa and limit size, type, and function of the device.

AIM

The aim of this study is to report our experience of simultaneous corporeal reconstruction and penile prosthesis implantation in patients with severe penile contracture consequence of diffuse fibrosis.

METHODS

Between March 2006 and February 2010, 18 patients with severe penile contracture and coporeal fibrosis underwent simultaneous corporeal reconstruction and placement of a penile prosthesis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Surgical outcome and complications have been recorded during postoperative follow-up. Patients' satisfaction has been assessed 6 months postoperatively with the administration of the modified erectile dysfunction index of treatment satisfaction questionnaire.

RESULTS

Although the dilatation of the corpora was extremely difficult due to the severe fibrosis, a penile prosthesis has been implanted in all patients. A malleable penile prosthesis has been inserted in four patients and a three-piece inflatable device in the remainder. After an average follow-up of 26 months (range 6-36), revision surgery was required in four patients (elective exchange to three-piece inflatable device in three patients and upsizing of the implant in one patient). Although all patients were able to achieve penetrative sexual intercourse, four patients were partially dissatisfied because of significant penile shortening.

CONCLUSION

In expert hands, simultaneous penile prosthesis implantation and corporal reconstruction of severely scarred corpora yield satisfactory results. Patients must be warned that complication rate in presence of severe fibrosis is significantly higher than in virgin cases and that downsized cylinders might be required due to the contracture of the tunica albuginea.

Decorin as a new treatment alternative in Peyronie's disease: preliminary results in the rat model

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of decorin, a naturally occurring proteoglycan with anti-transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) activity, on the rat model of Peyronie's disease (PD). Twenty-five adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided in three groups: I) TGF-β (0.5 μg) injected (n: 8); II) TGF-β injected and decorin treated (n: 8); and III) controls (n: 9). Decorin (0.5 μg per day) was given with intracavernous injection on the second, third, fourth and fifth day following TGF-β injection. All rats underwent electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve after 6 weeks. Intracavernosal and arterial blood pressures were measured during this procedure. Cross-sections of the rat penises were examined using Mason trichrome and H&E stains. Statistical analyses were carried out using one-way anova. Histopathological examinations confirmed the Peyronie's-like condition in TGF-β-injected rats, which exhibited a thickening of the tunica albuginea (TA), when compared to controls. Disorganisation of collagen on the TA was also prominent in TGF-β-injected rats, but not in decorin-treated and control rats. Decorin-treated rats showed significantly higher maximal intracavernosal pressure (MIP) responses to cavernous nerve stimulation, when compared to group 1 (P < 0.05). Our results indicate that decorin antagonises the effects of TGF-β in the rat model of PD and prevents diminished erectile response to cavernous nerve stimulation.

Phase 2b study of the clinical efficacy and safety of collagenase Clostridium histolyticum in patients with Peyronie disease

PURPOSE

Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum is an investigational nonsurgical treatment for Peyronie disease. In this phase 2b, double-blind, randomized, placebo controlled study we determined the safety and efficacy of collagenase C. histolyticum and assessed a patient reported outcome questionnaire.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 147 subjects were randomized into 4 groups to receive collagenase C. histolyticum or placebo (3:1) with or without penile plaque modeling (1:1). Per treatment cycle 2 injections of collagenase C. histolyticum (0.58 mg) were given 24 to 72 hours apart. Subjects received up to 3 cycles at 6-week intervals. When designated, investigator modeling was done 24 to 72 hours after the second injection of each cycle. We evaluated penile curvature by goniometer measurement, patient reported outcomes and adverse event profiles.

RESULTS

After collagenase C. histolyticum treatment significant improvements in penile curvature (29.7% vs 11.0%, p=0.001) and patient reported outcome symptom bother scores (p=0.05) were observed compared to placebo. In modeled subjects 32.4% improvement in penile curvature was observed in those on collagenase C. histolyticum compared to 2.5% worsening of curvature in those on placebo (p<0.001). Those treated with collagenase C. histolyticum who underwent modeling also showed improved Peyronie disease symptom bother scores (p=0.004). In subjects without modeling there were minimal differences between the active and placebo cohorts. Most adverse events in the collagenase C. histolyticum group occurred at the injection site and were mild or moderate in severity. No treatment related serious adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Collagenase C. histolyticum treatment was well tolerated. We noted significant improvement in penile curvature and patient reported outcome symptom bother scores, suggesting that this may be a safe, nonsurgical alternative for Peyronie disease.

A new, innovative, lengthening surgical procedure for Peyronie's disease by penile prosthesis implantation with double dorsal-ventral patch graft: the "sliding technique"

INTRODUCTION

Peyronie's disease is the result of the formation of fibrous plaques in the tunica albuginea of the penis; typical presentations of the disease are represented by pain during erection, erectile dysfunction, and penile deformities, such as curvature, narrowing, and penile shortening. The most complex treatment is related to penile shortening.

AIM

To find a safe procedure in penile shortening due to Peyronie's disease providing a satisfactory lengthening, allowing an early stabilization of the penis, and preventing axial tension on the neurovascular bundles during dilation.

METHODS

We describe a new lengthening surgical procedure based on a ventro-dorsal incision of the tunica albuginea, penile prosthesis implantation, and double dorsal-ventral patch grafting with porcine small intestinal submucosa. Three patients, affected by Peyronie's disease with penile shortening and erectile dysfunction, underwent this procedure with approval of our local ethical committee. We evaluated the penis lengthening, intraoperative and postoperative complications, patient's preoperative and postoperative sexual life satisfaction (International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF] questionnaire).

RESULTS

The average operative time was 2 hours and 50 minutes. No major intraoperative nor postoperative complications occurred. No significant bleedings were recorded. Patients were discharged after 48-72 hours. The average increase in length obtained was 3.2 cm. All patients resumed sexual intercourses with satisfaction; no significant loss of sensitivity or any sign of vascular distress of the glans was recorded. The follow-up is 13 months. The average IIEF score is 60.

CONCLUSIONS

The lengthening of the penis by a double dorsal-ventral patch graft is an innovative procedure that is based on current techniques of plaque incision and grafting, and that can easily resolve severe shortening of the penis due to Peyronie's disease. In the cases presented, this procedure resulted easily, effectively, and safely. Nevertheless, the technique proposed in this article shall be validated through prospective studies with larger samples.

Treatment of Peyronie's disease: 2012 update

Peyronie's disease (PD) is the occurrence of a fibrous inelastic scar of the tunica albuginea of the penis. It is a relatively common disorder among men, with a reported prevalence of 3% to 8%. It is often associated with penile pain, anatomical deformities in the erect state, and difficulty with intromission. Because the exact pathophysiology of PD remains unknown and standards for evaluating or reporting treatment outcomes are unclear, research on effective therapies has been limited. The benefits of nonsurgical treatment options are conflicting and further controlled studies are required before any therapy can be fully recommended. The success of surgery has been well documented; however, surgery is invasive and costly and carries potential side effects. Patients who report stable disease that has been present for longer than 12 months and who experience penile deformity preventing satisfactory sexual intercourse are best suited for surgery. Additionally, failed conservative management and a patient's preference for definitive correction are important additional indications for surgical treatment.