ORIGINAL RESEARCH—PHARMACOTHERAPY: Erectile Dysfunction Following Surgical Correction of Peyronie's Disease and a Pilot Study of the Use of Sildenafil Citrate Rehabilitation for Postoperative Erectile Dysfunction

Plication surgery does not produce additional loss of length in Peyronie's disease patients

Nesbit's procedure remains a cornerstone in surgical management of Peyronie's disease, despite the subjective loss of penile length. This retrospective study demonstrates that the perceived length loss has already occurred prior to surgery and that the Nesbit's procedure does not produce additional loss of length. Ninety-one patients who had undergone Nesbit's procedure between 2017 and 2022 at the Department of Urology of the University of Trieste were enrolled in the study. Preoperative stretched penile length and postoperative stretched penile length were measured. The curvature was uniplanar in 78 patients and biplanar in the remainder. Mean degree of the main curvature was 52.58° ± 14.13° and mean number of plications was 2.42 ± 1.07. Analysis revealed that the median of the differences between preoperative stretched penile length and postoperative stretched penile length was not significant (p = 0.466). According to our results, no significant penile shortening occurs as immediate consequence of Nesbit's procedure, as length is defined by the shorter side of the shaft affected by Peyronie's disease. Hence the length loss should have to be attributed to Peyronie's disease itself and could have been accurately predicted preoperatively allowing for a more accurate counseling of patients. Further studies are pending to assess potential postoperative loss of length due to scarring contracture.

Surgical Correction of Adult Congenital Penile Curvature: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Congenital penile curvature (CPC) is corrected surgically by various corporoplasty or tunica albuginea plication techniques, but the optimal surgical approach is not well-defined.

AIM

To provide a comprehensive evaluation of the published literature pertaining to outcomes with penile plication and corporoplasty techniques for surgical management of CPC. To determine if plication or corporoplasty offers superior outcomes in surgical correction of CPC.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Checklist. The following databases were queried from inception to March 18, 2020 to search for studies describing surgical treatment of CPC: Ovid MEDLINE(R) and Epub Ahead of Print, In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Daily, Ovid Embase, Ovid Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Ovid Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus.

OUTCOMES

Objective and subjective postoperative outcomes including penile straightening, shortening, penile sensory changes, and reoperation rates for both corporoplasty and tunica albuginea plication were summarized.

RESULTS

Fifty-five articles comprising 2,956 patients with CPC who underwent a plication procedure (n = 1,375) or corporoplasty (n = 1,580) were included. The definition of "treatment success" varied widely and most often involved subjective patient reporting (22 studies; 40%) or objective assessment (15 studies; 27%). We considered curvature correction to be satisfactory if there was self-reported patient satisfaction or residual curvature after correction of <20˚. Reported rates of successful straightening ranged from 75 to 100% and 73 to 100% for plication and corporoplasty, respectively. A comprehensive and accurate assessment of surgical outcomes for CPC correction, such as satisfactory penile straightening, reoperation rates, glans sensory changes, and other complications was limited by significant inter-study heterogeneity with respect to the reporting of treatment outcomes.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

While both plication and corporoplasty appear to be safe and effective options in the treatment of CPC, definitive conclusions cannot be drawn with respect to treatment superiority due to low-quality study design, methodology flaws, and significant heterogeneity in reporting.

STRENGTH & LIMITATIONS

This report represents the most comprehensive review of CPC surgical management. However, there is a significant lack of standardization in the reporting of treatment outcomes for CPC, thereby limiting the reliability of the published data summarization encompassed by our review.

CONCLUSION

Both plication and corporoplasty demonstrate high success rates and relatively low complication rates in the treatment of CPC, albeit with low-level evidence available in most research publications. Robust comparison of the surgical techniques used to correct CPC is limited by significant variation in reporting methods used in the literature. C. J. Britton, F. A. Jefferson, B. L. Findlay, et al. Surgical Correction of Adult Congenital Penile Curvature: A Systematic Review. J Sex Med 2022;19:364-376.

RNA-sequencing profiling analysis of pericyte-derived extracellular vesicle-mimetic nanovesicles-regulated genes in primary cultured fibroblasts from normal and Peyronie's disease penile tunica albuginea

BACKGROUND

Peyronie's disease (PD) is a severe fibrotic disease of the tunica albuginea that causes penis curvature and leads to penile pain, deformity, and erectile dysfunction. The role of pericytes in the pathogenesis of fibrosis has recently been determined. Extracellular vesicle (EV)-mimetic nanovesicles (NVs) have attracted attention regarding intercellular communication between cells in the field of fibrosis. However, the global gene expression of pericyte-derived EV-mimetic NVs (PC-NVs) in regulating fibrosis remains unknown. Here, we used RNA-sequencing technology to investigate the potential target genes regulated by PC-NVs in primary fibroblasts derived from human PD plaque.

METHODS

Human primary fibroblasts derived from normal and PD patients was cultured and treated with cavernosum pericytes isolated extracellular vesicle (EV)-mimetic nanovesicles (NVs). A global gene expression RNA-sequencing assay was performed on normal fibroblasts, PD fibroblasts, and PD fibroblasts treated with PC-NVs. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used for sequencing data validation.

RESULTS

A total of 4135 genes showed significantly differential expression in the normal fibroblasts, PD fibroblasts, and PD fibroblasts treated with PC-NVs. However, only 91 contra-regulated genes were detected among the three libraries. Furthermore, 20 contra-regulated genes were selected and 11 showed consistent changes in the RNA-sequencing assay, which were validated by RT-PCR.

CONCLUSION

The gene expression profiling results suggested that these validated genes may be good targets for understanding potential mechanisms and conducting molecular studies into PD.

Comparison of two different grafts for the surgical treatment of peyronie's disease

The aim of this study was to compare two different graft techniques, namely saphenous vein (SV) and buccal mucosa (BM) used together with plaque incision for the treatment of Peyronie's disease (PD) in terms of success, safety and patient and partner satisfaction. The study included 41 patients diagnosed with PD and treated with plaque incision and grafting between December 2015 and November 2019. Eighteen patients underwent plaque incision and BM grafting while the remaining 23 patients underwent plaque incision and SV grafting. Pre-operative plaque size, curvature angle, curvature start time and penis length were statistically similar between the SV and BM graft groups. No statistical difference was detected between the BM and SV graft groups in terms of the sixth- and 12th-month mean International Index of Erectile Function scores, Patient Global Impression of Improvement scores, penis lengths and final partner satisfaction rates during the follow-up period. Residual curvature was observed in three (13.1%) patients in the SV graft group and two (11.2%) patients in the BM graft group. With their high success and low side effect rates, both grafting techniques with plaque incision can be safely performed for tunical lengthening, based on the surgeon's experience.

A decade of grafting techniques as a sole treatment for Peyronie's disease

BACKGROUND

Peyronie's disease (PD) can be a cosmetically and functionally devastating condition. Surgical approaches have been proposed in the chronic stages of PD as plication or plaque incision/excision with grafting to preserve penile size in complex cases. Although several surgeons nowadays are inclined toward the utilization of non-autologous grafts owing to the ease of their preparation and availability, synthetic graft procedures still await more technical improvements and supporting evidence before their consideration for standard care.

OBJECTIVES

In this review, our goal is to facilitate an insight into the most promising grafting materials used for the management of PD and techniques associated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A PubMed review was conducted for all the studies on our topic within the past ten years (January 2009 until December 2019). The outcome parameters we documented and compared comprised of operative time, follow-up time, postoperative penile cosmesis and function, and, finally, overall patient satisfaction related to each technique.

RESULTS

Our search yielded 23 English-written original study articles in addition to a single case report on the various grafting techniques utilized as the sole treatment for PD, each demonstrating different outcomes and points of comparison.

CONCLUSION

A successful grafting procedure for PD requires an appropriately tailored surgical modality and an experienced surgeon. Nevertheless, proper preoperative patient counseling on all aspects of his condition and opted treatment modality while setting clear and realistic expectations remains key for overall patient satisfaction.

Contemporary surgical and non-surgical management of Peyronie's disease

Numerous treatments have been proposed for Peyronie's disease (PD). As the evidence base has expanded, the field of operative and non-operative options for patients has narrowed. Collagenase clostridium hystolyticum (CCH) injection now comprises the medical option, and surgical possibilities entail penile plication, plaque incision/excision and grafting, and prosthesis implantation. Still, questions abound regarding the optimal approach and indication for each of these treatments. We conducted a review of literature exploring the contemporary management of PD with a particular focus on work since the last American Urologic Association's (AUA) guidelines update for PD. Recent results and discussion indicate trends toward minimal invasiveness, toward a more holistic approach to the PD patient, and away from algorithmic management, galvanized, in part, by data challenging long-held beliefs.

2018 Canadian Urological Association guideline for Peyronie's disease and congenital penile curvature

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a highly prevalent condition that affects the physical and psychosocial well-being and quality of life (QoL) for thousands of Canadian men. The specific etiology of PD remains poorly understood and there remains a paucity of randomized placebo-controlled trials evaluating treatment interventions.1-3 PD can be found in up to 8.9% of men, a remarkable increase in cited prevalence that is attributable to growing awareness (as historical data suggested a rate of less than 1%); the burden of disease is significant, and PD is often present in otherwise healthy men. The following guidelines were crafted by the committee with a full awareness of the limitations of the literature, and sought to provide actionable recommendations to guide PD care in the Canadian health system.

Penile prosthetic surgery for the management of Peyronie's disease

With the increased prevalence of Peyronie’s disease (PD) among men, there is also an up-rise of associated erectile dysfunction (ED) which can be devastating psychologically and sexually to most men. A wide range of therapies including medical and surgical procedures are available to satisfactorily address this condition. However when ED coexists, the gold standard treatment is penile prosthetic prosthesis (PP) with or without additional straightening procedures. We herein systematically review the contemporary literature addressing the role of the PP in the management of PD with concomitant ED with particular emphasis on patient’s satisfaction, outcomes and safety.

Peyronie's graft surgery-tips and tricks from the masters in andrologic surgery

BACKGROUND

Grafting techniques in the surgical management of Peyronie's disease (PD) are challenging, especially in inexperienced hands. In order to improve surgical outcomes the urologist should follow a standard surgical approach, preferably of an established and reliable grafting technique. The aim of this study is to provide tips and tricks for graft surgery for PD.

METHODS

This report offers a step-by-step tutorial for grafting techniques in PD, especially for the Sealing technique and the partial plaque excision and grafting (PEG) procedure. Two senior surgeons (GH, LAL) describe their surgical technique in detail, and provide important aspects and tips one has to be aware of when performing a grafting technique in patients with PD. Special attention is also paid to preoperative considerations and adequate patient counseling. Moreover, postoperative penile rehabilitation programs are discussed.

RESULTS

Adequate preoperative counseling of patients is crucial, and should include possible adverse effects and negative outcomes, such as persistent or recurrent curvature, diminished sensation at the glans penis, diminished erectile function, or penile shortening. The correct indication for a grafting technique is imperative. There are many surgical details during grafting techniques, which have to be considered in order to achieve the best result possible. These include the correct preparation of the neurovascular bundle, the following partial plaque excision without damaging the underlying erectile tissue, and the sufficient closure of the resulting tunica albuginea defect. Defect closure can be done by grafts like pericardial graft (PEG procedure) or the collagen fleece (Sealing technique). Postoperatively, the patient should refrain from sexual activities for at least 6 weeks, and follow a penile rehabilitation program with Phoshodiesterase-Type-5 inhibitors, manual stretch, penile massage, and penile traction therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The present paper offers a step-by-step tutorial for grafting techniques in PD, especially for the Sealing technique and the PEG procedure, in order to help the reader to understand major steps during surgery and to avoid pitfalls. Careful patient selection, a reliable and established surgical technique and a postoperative rehabilitation program are main predictors for treatment success. In summary, the ultimate goal should be improved patient care, safety and satisfaction.

Grafting techniques for Peyronie's disease

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a benign fibrotic condition of the penile tunica albuginea. PD can be associated with penile pain, curvature, shortening, and erectile dysfunction (ED). The predominant and most bothersome symptom in affected patients is penile curvature, which can lead to inability to have sexual intercourse. In such cases, surgical correction of the curvature may be required. Plication techniques to correct curvature can cause penile shortening and therefore are generally reserved for curvatures <60°. Penile prosthesis implantation with simultaneous correction of curvature by various means is recommended in PD patients with ED not responding to medical therapy. Grafting techniques are the preferred surgical treatment in patients with penile curvatures >60°, short penis, or hourglass deformity. Patients scheduled for grafting surgery are required to have satisfactory erectile rigidity preoperatively. There are various grafting materials that can be used for closure of the tunica albuginea defect following plaque incision/excision. Both autologous and non-autologous grafts have been used for PD reconstructive surgery, and each graft has its advantages and disadvantages. Novel grafting materials are presented and discussed in this review. A major advantage of the available “off-the-shelf” grafts is that there is no harvesting from a donor site and, thus, morbidity is reduced, and operative times are minimized. Further investigations in regard to tissue-engineered grafts to improve surgical handling and postoperative outcomes are ongoing. Surgeon experience, careful patient selection, patient preference and type of penile deformity affect the choice of graft. This review summarizes the literature within the past 5 years regarding grafting techniques in PD. Surgical outcomes and limitations of grafting techniques are reported. A major objective of this review is dedicated to preoperative considerations and indications for grafting procedures, with the aim to improve surgical outcomes and increase patient satisfaction. Proper postoperative management of patients after incision/excision and grafting is important to avoid early and long-term complications and unwanted outcomes. This review provides an overview of recent advances and recommendations in regard to rehabilitation strategies after grafting procedures. Adequate preoperative patient counseling, careful patient selection, appropriate indications, and postoperative management is key to optimal surgical outcomes with high satisfaction rates after grafting techniques in PD surgery.

Use of autologous grafts in the treatment of acquired penile curvature: An experience of 33 cases

AIM

The objective was to compare the use of autologous dermal and temporalis fascia grafts in the treatment of acquired penile curvatures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

It was a prospective observational study of 33 cases, conducted in Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar from March 2007 to September 2013. All the patients had stable Peyronies disease (PD). Dorsal, dorsolateral and vental curvatures with good preoperative erections were included. PD index with visual analog scales for curvature was used preoperatively. An informed written consent was taken from all the patients with main emphasis on erectile dysfunction.

RESULTS

After an average follow up of 2 years, complete straightening of penis was observed in all patients with satisfactory sexual intercourse in 30 patients (90%). Three patients (10%) required frequent use of type 5 phosphodiesterase inhibitors for adequate erections. Overall 91% of patients and partners were satisfied with the procedure and cosmetically donor site was better in temporalis fascia graft site. No rejection of any graft was noted and glans hypoesthesia was noticed in 4 patients (12%). None of the patients required penile prosthesis. Total operative time for harvesting and application of the graft was more in dermal grafts (>3 hrs) than for temporalis fascia graft (2 hrs).

CONCLUSION

Tunical lengthening procedures by autologous free grafts represents a safe and reproducible technique. A good preoperative erectile function is required for tunical lengthening procedure. Temporalis fascia graft is thin, tough membrane and effective graft for PD with good cosmetic and functional results.

Surgical treatment of Peyronie's disease by modified 16-dot placation in China

Objective

To assess the long-term patient’s satisfaction and functional results of surgical correction for Peyronie’s disease (PD) patients with penile curvature by 16-dot minimal tension placation and its modification in Chinese population.

Patients and methods

Between August 2004 and December 2008, 32 patients with PD underwent surgical correction of penile curvature by 16-dot minimal tension placation and its modification. Indications for operation included PD patients with penile curvature, adequate erectile capacity, difficulty or inability to vaginal penetration. Preoperative evaluation included International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire score, pain on erection and physical examination. Patients were recommended daily low dose phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors two weeks after surgery and maintained for two months. At follow-up, patients and partner’s satisfaction and erectile function were assessed by IIEF-5 questionnaire score.

Results

There were no surgery-related complications, and 94% of patients and 88% of partners reported overall satisfaction after the surgery. Complete penile straightening was achieved in 27 (84%) patients. Slight residual curvatures were observed in 4 patients, which did not affect their sexual intercourse. All patients were satisfied with postoperative penile length while shortening of the penis was noted in 13 patients 
(40%) with median penile length loss of 1.5 cm. In addition, no de novo erectile dysfunction was observed, and sexual function was significantly improved evidenced by the IIEF-5 scores, especially in the patients who have received PDE5 inhibitors for two months after two weeks surgery.

Conclusions

Correction of penile curvature using 16-dot placation and its modification is a simple and safe method to achieve cosmetic and functional satisfaction in carefully selected PD patients.

Practical Computerized Solution for Incision and Grafting in Peyronie's Disease

Introduction

Penile curvature correction with plaque incision and graft (PIG) increases the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED) and is associated with mechanical and geometric abnormalities.

Aims

The aim of this study was to create and validate a new PIG technique using minimum graft area to correct simple or complex penile curvature with or without hourglass deformity, while avoiding mechanical and geometric abnormalities.

Methods

Using our cotton fabric model, we created a mathematic solution for PIG with no residual defects. This was applied in nine men who had sufficient penile rigidity while penetrating their respective partners. They underwent fascia lata patch corporoplasty using the new developed technique (iPad [Apple Corp, Palo Alto, CA, USA] app: iGrafter). Subjects answered the 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire preoperatively and at the end of follow-up.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures used were patient demographics, erectile function, residual curvature, patient satisfaction, graft area, and complications.

Results

After a mean follow-up of 17.8 months, no significant complication was noted. Complete penile straightening was achieved in all patients. The short side of the penis increased a mean of 3 cm in length, and the mean graft area was 12.4 cm². At the end of the follow-up, three patients developed recurrent deformity. One patient presented severe fibrosis in the corpora cavernosa and severe ED. There was no significant difference between the mean preoperative and postoperative IIEF-5 scores (20.6 vs 19.4, respectively). At the end of follow-up, all patients were able to have sexual intercourse (two with and seven without pharmacological aid). Eight of the nine patients were satisfied with the surgical result.

Conclusion

Penile curvature surgical correction using the iGrafter seems to be an efficient and safe procedure, which uses minimum graft area and preserves erectile function after penile rectification, without resulting in residual deformities. Further research is needed to confirm the efficacy of this procedure.

Strategies for penile prosthesis placement in Peyronie's disease and corporal fibrosis

Peyronie's disease (PD) is a wound healing disorder of the tunica albuginea of the penis. PD is generally categorized into two phases: the early acute inflammatory and late chronic fibrotic. Surgical reconstruction is only recommended during the latter established phase. There are a variety of options when erections are functional. However, when erectile dysfunction is present, the gold standard treatment is the placement of an inflatable penile prosthesis with or without additional straightening procedures. General recommendations include that after implanting and inflating the cylinders, if a clinically significant curvature is present, manual modeling is performed. If a residual curve >30° remains after modeling, then various techniques, including plaque releasing incision, is the next step. Grafting can be considered if tunical defects are >2.0 cm. Causes of corporal fibrosis include complications from an infected implant such as explantation, priapism, penile trauma, and prolonged use of an intracavernosal injection agent. Implant placement in the setting of corporal fibrosis can be technically challenging. Available strategies include incision or excision of the scar, corporotomies with or without grafting, the use of cavernotomes, or other specialized dilators, implant downsizing, and transcorporeal resection.

Outcomes of surgical treatment of Peyronie's disease

The aims of the present review were to assess the literature on published outcomes and complications associated with surgical treatments for Peyronie's disease (PD) and to assist clinicians in the effective management of PD by increasing understanding and awareness of the outcomes associated with current surgical treatment options. A PubMed literature search was conducted to identify relevant, peer-reviewed clinical and review articles published between January 1980 and October 2013 related to outcomes of surgical correction of PD. Search terms for this non-systematic review included 'Peyronie's disease', 'outcomes', 'complications', 'erectile dysfunction or ED', 'patient expectation', and 'patient satisfaction'; search terms were searched separately and in combination. Case studies and editorials were excluded, primary manuscripts and reviews were included, and bibliographies of articles of interest were reviewed and key references were obtained. Assessment of the study design, methodology, clinical relevance and impact on the surgical outcomes of PD was performed on the sixty-one articles that were selected and analysed. Currently, there are several investigational minimally invasive and non-surgical treatment options for PD; however, surgical treatment remains the standard of care for patients with stable disease and disabling deformity or drug-resistant erectile dysfunction. Each of the different surgical procedures that are used for treatment of PD, including tunical shortening, tunical lengthening (plaque incisions or partial excision and grafting), and use of inflatable penile prostheses, carries its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of potential complications and postoperative satisfaction. Because of the variety of ways that PD may present in affected patients, no single, standard, surgical treatment for this disorder has prevailed and multiple variations of each type of procedure may exist. Surgical outcomes of the most commonly used procedures are not substantially different; therefore, the appropriateness of each treatment option may often depend on disease and patient characteristics (e.g. deformity and erectile function). Surgical algorithms have been published to guide surgeons and patients through the selection of surgical procedures in the absence of conclusive, long-term outcome data. Accumulating data on outcomes associated with established procedures, modifications to these procedures, and new surgical techniques and materials may serve to further guide practice and refine evidence-based selection of the surgical approach.

A geometric model of plaque incision and graft for Peyronie's disease with geometric analyses of different techniques

INTRODUCTION

A surgical approach with plaque incision and graft (PIG) to correct Peyronie's disease is the best method for complex, large deviations. However, the geometric and mechanical consequences of this intervention are poorly understood.

AIM

The aim of this study was to analyze the geometric and mechanical consequences of PIG on penile straighten surgery.

METHOD

A tridimensional penile simile model with a curvature of 85° was created to test all of the most common PIG techniques. PIG with double-Y, H-shape, and Egydio techniques were used to rectify the curved penile model.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

The results that differed from a rectified cylinder shape were highlighted.

RESULTS

All of the analyzed techniques created a geometric distortion that could be linked to poor surgical results. We suggest a new technique to resolve these abnormalities.

CONCLUSION

Current techniques designed to correct penile deviation using PIG present geometric and mechanical imperfections with potential consequences to the postoperative success rate. The new technique proposed in this report could be a possible solution to solve the geometric distortion caused by PIG.

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.

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.

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.

Predicting erectile dysfunction following surgical correction of Peyronie's disease without inflatable penile prosthesis placement: vascular assessment and preoperative risk factors

INTRODUCTION

Surgical therapy remains the gold standard treatment for Peyronie's Disease (PD). Surgical options include plication, grafting, and placement of inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP). Postoperative erectile dysfunction (ED) is a potential complication for PD surgery without IPP. We present our large series follow-up to evaluate preoperative risk factors for postoperative ED.

AIMS

The aim of this study is to evaluate preoperative risk factors for the development of ED following surgical correction of PD taking into account the degree of curvature, graft size, surgical approach, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, smoking history, preoperative use of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (PDE5), and preoperative duplex ultrasound findings including peak systolic and end diastolic velocities and resistive index.

METHODS

We identified 218 men undergoing either tunica albuginea plication (TAP) or partial plaque excision with pericardial grafting for PD following a previously published algorithm between November 1992 and April 2007. Preoperative and postoperative erectile function, curvature characteristics, presence of vascular risk factors, and duplex ultrasound findings were available on 109 patients.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Our primary outcome measure is the development of ED after surgery for PD.

RESULTS

Ten percent of TAP and 21% of plaque excision with grafting patients developed postoperative ED. Neither curve direction (P = 0.76), graft area (P = 0.78), surgical approach (P = 0.12), chronic hypertension (P = 0.51), hyperlipidemia (P = 0.87), diabetes (P = 0.69), nor smoking history (P = 0.99) were significant predictors of postoperative ED. No combination of risk factors was found to be predictive of postoperative ED. Preoperative use of PDE5 was not a significant predictor of postoperative ED (P = 0.33). Neither peak systolic, end diastolic, nor resistive index were significant predictors of ED (P = 0.28, 0.28, and 0.25, respectively).

CONCLUSION

This long-term follow-up of a large published series suggests that neither preoperative risk factors nor preoperative duplex ultrasound findings are predictive of postoperative ED, thus reinforcing the use of previously published preoperative treatment algorithms.

Erectile dysfunction after plaque incision and grafting: short-term assessment of incidence and predictors

INTRODUCTION

Plaque incision and grafting (PIG) surgery for Peyronie's disease (PD) is a recognized management strategy. One of the recognized complications of PIG surgery is the development of postoperative erectile dysfunction (ED).

AIM

To determine the incidence of ED after PIG surgery and attempt to define predictors of ED development.

METHODS

All patients underwent preoperative cavernosometry. Grafting was performed with either cadaveric pericardium (Tutoplast) or intestinal submucosa (Surgisis). Prior to 2006, the procedure used an H-type incision, whereas after this date, the Egydio approach has been used.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Men undergoing PIG completed preoperative and 6-month postoperative International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaires.

RESULTS

56 patients were analyzed. Mean patient and partner ages were 57 ± 22 and 54 ± 18 years, respectively. Mean duration of PD at the time of PIG was 22 ± 9 months. Seventy-five percent had curvature alone, 11% had hourglass/indentation deformity, and the remainder had combined curvature/indentation. Mean preoperative curvature was 52 ± 23°. Fifty-two had grafting with Tutoplast, while four had grafting with Surgisis. All men at baseline were capable of generating a penetration rigidity erection. Preoperatively, 50% of men had cavernosal insufficiency and 21% had venous leak (baseline and postoperative erectile function [EF] domain scores were 23 ± 4 and 17 ± 9, respectively [P < 0.01]). Forty-six percent of men experienced a ≥6-point decrease in EF domain score after PIG. The predictors of a ≥6-point reduction in IIEF-EF domain score on multivariable analysis were degree of preoperative curvature, type of plaque incision, patient age, and baseline venous leak. Conclusions.  Almost one-half of men had significant reduction in their erectile rigidity after PIG. Reduction was predicted by larger baseline curvature, the Egydio plaque incision technique, older patient age, and the presence of venous leak at baseline. Based on these data, we discourage older men, those with venous leak, and those with profound curvature from considering PIG surgery.

Toward a new 'EPOCH': optimising treatment outcomes with phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors for erectile dysfunction

Despite the marked adverse impacts of erectile dysfunction (ED) on quality of life and well-being, many patients (and/or their partners) do not seek medical attention for this problem, do not receive treatment or discontinue such treatment even when it has effectively restored erectile responses to sexual stimulation. Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are considered first-line therapies for men with ED. To help physicians maximise the likelihood of treatment success with these agents, we conducted an English-language PubMed search of articles involving approved PDE5 inhibitors dating from 1 January 1998 (the year in which sildenafil citrate was introduced), through 31 August 2008. In addition to sildenafil, tadalafil and vardenafil, search terms included 'adhere*', 'couple*', 'effect*', 'effic*', 'partner*', 'satisf*', 'succe*' and 'treatment outcome.' Based on our analysis, physician activities to promote favourable treatment outcomes may be captured under the mnemonic 'EPOCH': (i) Evaluating and educating patients and partners to ensure realistic expectations of therapy; (ii) Prescribing a treatment individualised to the couple's lifestyle needs and other preferences; (iii) Optimising treatment outcomes by scheduling follow-up visits with the patient to 'fine-tune' dosages and revisit key educational messages; (iv) Controlling comorbidities via lifestyle counselling, medications and/or referrals and (v) Helping patients and their partners to meet their health and psychosocial needs, potentially referring them to a specialist for other forms of therapy if they are not satisfied with PDE5 inhibitors.

Circumcision is not mandatory in penile surgery

OBJECTIVE

To assess the outcome of not circumcising patients having surgery to correct a congenital or acquired curvature, through a subcoronal approach.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In a series of 251 consecutive patients (mean age 46 years, range 17-74) that had their penis straightened by either a Lue (86), or a Nesbit procedure (162) or a combination of both (three) between 2000 and 2008, a subcoronal circumferential incision was used for the degloving in 241. Among the 183 patients who had not been previously circumcised, 22 presented with a tight foreskin and were offered a circumcision; six of them refused to be circumcised. Of the remaining 161 patients, 115, including two who had previous penile surgery, opted not to be circumcised.

RESULTS

After a median (range) follow-up of 5.5 (1-50) months, secondary circumcision was performed in three of the six patients with a tight foreskin, in one of the 113 (0.8%) with a normal retractable foreskin and in one of the two who had had previous penile surgery and had a normal foreskin.

CONCLUSIONS

Circumcision should not be considered as a routine part of penile surgery unless a significant phimosis is present or revisional surgery is contemplated.

Surgical correction of Peyronie's disease via tunica albuginea plication or partial plaque excision with pericardial graft: long-term follow up

INTRODUCTION

Limited publications exist regarding long-term outcomes of surgical correction for Peyronie's Disease (PD).

AIM

To report on long-term postoperative parameters including rigidity, curvature, length, sensation, function, and patient satisfaction in men with PD treated surgically via Tunica Albuginea Plication (TAP) or Partial Plaque Excision with Tutoplast Human Pericardial Grafting (PEG).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Objective and subjective data regarding patients who underwent either TAP or PEG.

METHODS

We report on 142 patients (61 TAP and 81 PEG) with both objective data and subjective patient reports on their postoperative experience. Patients underwent either TAP or PEG following our previously published algorithm. Data was collected via chart review and an internally generated survey, in which patients were asked about their rigidity, straightness, penile length, sensation, sexual function and satisfaction.

RESULTS

Average follow up for TAP patients was 72 months (range 8-147) and 58 months (range 6-185) for PEG patients. At survey time, 93% of TAP and 91% of PEG patients reported curvatures of less than 30o. Rigidity was reportedly as good as or better than preoperative in 81% of TAP and 68% of PEG patients, and was adequate for coitus in 90% of TAP and 79% of PEG patients with or without the use of PDE5i. Objective flaccid stretched penile length measurements obtained pre and postoperatively show an average overall length gain of 0.6 cm (range -3.5-3.5) for TAP and 0.2 cm (range -1.5-2.0) for PEG patients. Sensation was reportedly as good as or better than preoperative in 69% of both TAP and PEG patients; 98% of TAP patients and 90% of PEG are able to achieve orgasm. 82% of TAP patients and 75% of PEG patients were either very satisfied or satisfied.

CONCLUSION

Our long-term results support both TAP and PEG as durable surgical therapy for men with clinically significant PD.

Surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction after dermal, pericardial, and small intestinal submucosal grafting for Peyronie's disease

INTRODUCTION

Peyronie's disease, a localized fibrosis of the tunica albuginea surrounding the penile corpora, results in penile curvature and sexual dysfunction. Surgical management involving grafting to straighten the penis is the treatment of choice in conditions unresponsive to conservative therapy where penile length preservation is important.

AIM

To determine surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction after dermal, pericardial, and small intestinal submucosal grafting for Peyronie's disease.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), postoperative self-reports, patient satisfaction, and clinical characteristics were used to measure outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed charts of 36 patients who underwent surgery for Peyronie's disease requiring grafting from 1999 to 2005. Follow-up to subjectively assess outcomes was conducted.

RESULTS

Average patient age at surgery was 55 +/- 1 years. Body mass indexes were similar among all groups. Erectile dysfunction risk factors were comparable with 36% reporting hypertension and 22% hypercholesterolemia. Overall patient follow-up time was 673 +/- 98 days. Self-reported resolution of penile curvature was noted in 60% of dermal, 100% of Tutoplast, and 76.9% of Stratasis graft recipients. Stratasis patients maintained presurgery length (54%) and rigidity (77%) more so than dermal (30%, 60%) and Tutoplast (23%, 39%) patients. Assessment of erectile dysfunction using the IIEF-5 captured significant improvements in patients receiving Stratasis grafts (preoperative: 10.1 +/- 1.1 vs. postoperative: 17 +/- 1.6). Overall, 89% of patients reported satisfaction following surgical intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical management of Peyronie's disease results in correction of penile curvatures and high rates of patient satisfaction. Loss of penile length and decreased rigidity occurred to a lesser degree with Stratasis grafts. While detailed informed consent is essential in this patient population, novel materials such as Tutoplast and Stratasis grafts improve outcomes following surgical correction of Peyronie's disease.

Defining the Clinical Characteristics of Peyronie’s Disease in Young Men

INTRODUCTION

Peyronie's disease (PD) is usually seen in men in their fifth decade of life.

AIM

In this study, we investigated the characteristics of the disease in young men.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The demographics, clinical features, and associated comorbidities of the patients with PD were retrospectively reviewed.

METHODS

The findings were compared between men with the disease who were under 40 years of age with those over 40 years. Statistical analyses were conducted to define differentiating features between these two groups.

RESULTS

Of the 296 patients, 32 were under the age of 40 years and 264 over 40 years. The mean duration of the disease was 2 +/- 4 and 6 +/- 8 months in the respective age groups. Fifty-six percent of the patients under the age of 40 years and 75% of the patients over this age presented with curvature (P < 0.01). Thirty-seven percent under 40 years and 12% men over 40 years had more than one plaque at presentation (P < 0.01). Dupuytren's contracture was seen only in patients over 40 years of age. Pain at presentation was found in 75% under the age of 40 years and in 65% over 40 years (P = 0.03). Trauma history was found in 18% under 40 years and in 5% over this age (P < 0.01). Statistical significant differences were found between the groups under and over the age of 40 years for hypertension (P < 0.01) and dyslipidemia (P < 0.01). Diabetes was noted in 50% of the patients under the age of 40 years and in 18% of the patients over this age (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis of conditions associated in men with PD under 40 years of age showed statistical significant differences for diabetes (P = 0.015), presentation within 6 months (P = 0.004), and having multiple plaques (P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Young men with PD are more likely to present at an earlier stage of the disease, to have diabetes, and to have more than one plaque at the time of presentation.

Plaque incision and fascia lata grafting in the surgical management of Peyronie's disease

OBJECTIVE

To assess the outcome of using modified human fascia lata (Tutoplast, Mentor Corp, Santa Barbara, CA, USA) in the surgical management of Peyronie's disease (PD), as the penile deformity associated with PD can be corrected by plaque incision and saphenous vein grafting (Lue procedure).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 14 patients (mean age 51 years, range 34-59) with PD had their penile deformity corrected by plaque incision and Tutoplast grafting. Three patients had a previous unsuccessful Nesbit operation. The mean (range) penile deformity before surgery was 67.2 (20-90) degrees and the mean follow-up was 31 (17-37) months.

RESULTS

Using set criteria, 13 patients were satisfied (excellent or satisfactory) with the results of surgery. The penis was completely straight in 11 of 14 patients. One patient developed de novo erectile dysfunction after surgery. In 10 patients there was no penile shortening, whereas four reported penile shortening of >1 cm.

CONCLUSION

Fascia lata Tutoplast grafts provide a reliable and well tolerated biomaterial for penile reconstruction in PD. The outcome of using Tutoplast is similar to that from saphenous vein but without the morbidity associated with the donor site. However, there remains a significant risk of penile shortening and development of erectile dysfunction.