Although the variety of agents and methods used points to the lack of a proven treatment, new insights into the wound healing process may yield more effective therapies in the near future. Peyronie's disease has been treated with some success by surgery. The two most common surgical methods are removal or expansion of the plaque followed by placement of a patch of skin or artificial material, and removal or pinching of tissue from the side of the penis opposite the plaque, which cancels out the bending effect. The first method can involve partial loss of erectile function, especially rigidity. The second method, known as the Nesbit procedure, causes a shortening of the erect penis.
Some men choose to receive an implanted device that increases rigidity of the penis.
In some cases, an implant alone will straighten the penis adequately. Most types of surgery produce positive results. Established in 1987, the clearinghouse provides information about diseases of the kidneys and urologic system to people with kidney and urologic disorders and to their families, health care professionals, and the public. Publications produced by the clearinghouse are carefully reviewed for scientific accuracy, content, and readability. This e-text is not copyrighted.