A. Conservative Management

• Oral Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or vitamin E supplements.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Smoking cessation, weight management, and stress reduction.

• Devices: It is important to use only medically approved devices, like the examples provided (Urologist recommended)
  
  1. Penile Traction Devices - (The RestoreX)
  
  2. Vacuum Erection Devices -  (Osbon Medical VEDs)

1. Traction Devices

Traction devices, also known as penis extenders or stretchers, are sometimes used in the treatment of Peyronie's disease. The most studied traction device is the RestoreX, developed in association with the Mayo Clinic, considered by most urologists to be the “gold standard”. These devices are designed to apply gentle and continuous tension to the penis with the aim of reducing curvature caused by Peyronie's disease and improving overall penile health. It's important to note that the use of traction devices should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional, and individual results may vary.

Here are some general points about traction devices for Peyronie's disease:

 Mechanism of Action:

• Traction devices work by applying a controlled amount of stretching force to the penis over a period of time.

• The goal is to remodel the collagen fibers in the tunica albuginea, the fibrous tissue surrounding the corpora cavernosa, and reduce the curvature associated with Peyronie's disease.

Clinical Evidence:

Several studies support the benefits of traction therapy in reducing penile curvature in men with Peyronie's disease. Majority of traction studies for Peyronie’s Disease have been done using the RestoreX device, which was developed by a urologist, in association with the Mayo Clinic. The Canadian distributor for the RestoreX is Osbon Medical Canada, linked here: https://osbon.ca/products/restorex

Studies are linked here: https://osbon.ca/pages/traction-therapy-studies

Consistency and Patience:

Traction therapy requires consistency and patience. Results are typically not immediate, and it may take weeks or months to see any noticeable changes.

Potential Side Effects:

Incorrect or excessive use of traction devices can lead to side effects such as pain, bruising, or injury. It's crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and any guidance provided by a healthcare professional.

Combination with Other Therapies:

Traction therapy is often used in combination with other treatments for Peyronie's disease, such as oral medications, injections, or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.

Device Selection:

There are various traction devices available on the market, but it’s important to be weary of poor quality devices. Consultation with a healthcare professional can help in selecting a device that suits an individual's needs. As always, it is important to seek out higher quality medical devices which are FDA and Health Canada approved.

2. Vacuum Erection Devices

Vacuum therapy, with the use of vacuum erection devices (VEDs), is a treatment option that is sometimes considered for Peyronie's disease. These devices use negative pressure to draw blood into the penis, creating an erection. While primarily used for erectile dysfunction, some healthcare providers may recommend vacuum therapy for Peyronie's disease to address symptoms such as curvature and improve penile health. The most medically studied VED is the Osbon ErecAid <https://osbon.ca/products/erecaid-esteem-manual-system>

Here are some key points regarding vacuum therapy for Peyronie's disease:

Mechanism of Action:

• Vacuum erection devices work by creating a vacuum around the penis, which draws blood into the corpora cavernosa, producing an artificial erection.

• The theory is that regular use of the device may help stretch and straighten the penile tissue, potentially reducing curvature associated with Peyronie's disease.

Clinical Evidence:

While vacuum therapy has been studied more extensively for penile rehabilitation and erectile dysfunction, its role in treating Peyronie's disease is becoming more prevalent.

Limited clinical evidence suggests that vacuum therapy may have some benefit in reducing curvature and improving sexual function in some men with Peyronie's disease. A recent study was done in Canada:

In patients who opt for non-invasive management of PD, VED traction therapy provides improved curvature resolution compared to those who do not use such a device.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7492030/

Guidance and Monitoring:

The use of vacuum therapy for Peyronie's disease should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional, typically a urologist.

Regular monitoring and adjustments may be necessary to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Combination with Other Therapies:

Vacuum therapy is often used in combination with other treatments for Peyronie's disease, such as oral medications, injections, or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.

Potential Side Effects:

Potential side effects of vacuum therapy may include bruising, petechiae (small red or purple spots on the skin), or discomfort. These side effects are usually temporary.

Consistency and Patience:

Like other non-surgical treatments for Peyronie's disease, vacuum therapy requires consistency and patience. Results may not be immediate, and regular use over an extended period may be necessary.

Individual Responses:

Responses to vacuum therapy can vary among individuals. Some may find it helpful, while others may not experience significant improvement.

It's crucial to emphasize that the use of vacuum therapy for Peyronie's disease should be discussed with and supervised by a qualified healthcare provider. Not all patients may find it suitable or effective, and individual considerations such as overall health and the severity of Peyronie's disease should be taken into account.

B. Medications

• Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum (Xiaflex): An enzyme that breaks down collagen within the plaques. Xiaflex is currently unavailable in Canada, to receive updates on Xiaflex in Canada, sign up to the email list at the bottom of the page.

• Verapamil: A calcium channel blocker with potential anti-fibrotic effects.

• Pentoxifylline: Improves blood flow and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties.
  
  
  

C. Surgical Interventions

• Excision or Incision: Removal or incision of the plaque to straighten the penis.

• Penile Implants: Inflatable devices inserted into the penis to facilitate erections.

• Grafting Procedures: Use of grafts to replace or support the tunica albuginea.

• Stem Cell Therapy: Investigational approach utilizing stem cells to repair damaged tissue.
  
  
  

D. Support Groups

There is a lack of groups or online forums where individuals with Peyronie's disease can share experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support. If you are interested in joining a group, please enter your email in the form at the bottom of the page.