Peyronie’s disease after a shock? I’m Dr. Sébastien Beley , a urological surgeon in Paris, and today I want to talk to you about a topic that often concerns my patients: Peyronie’s disease , particularly when it occurs after trauma or a blow to the genitals. This condition can manifest in different ways, and its causes are sometimes poorly understood, even by some healthcare professionals. My goal here is to shed light on what Peyronie’s disease really is, how a shock can cause it, and above all, how to detect and treat it effectively to limit its consequences.
What is Lapeyronie’s disease?
Lapeyronie’s disease is a condition characterized by the formation of abnormal scar or fibrous tissue within the corpus cavernosum of the penis. This scar tissue causes abnormal curvature of the penis, often associated with pain, reduced length or volume, and sometimes
In medical practice, there is sometimes confusion between “classic” Lapeyronie’s disease, which occurs without any obvious trauma, and penile deformities that appear after an injury or “fracture” of the penis. And yet, they are the same pathological process: an inflammatory reaction in the cavernous tissue leading to the formation of scar tissue. The difference often lies in the origin of this inflammatory reaction.
The role of trauma in Lapeyronie’s disease
A common question is whether shock or trauma to the genitals can cause Lapeyronie’s disease. The answer is yes. In fact, direct trauma is a fairly common and well-documented cause of this disease. This trauma can occur in a variety of situations:
- An injury sustained during a sporting activity, such as mountain biking or motorcycling.
- Accidental shock during intercourse.
- Sudden trauma, however slight, to the penis.
This shock often results in internal bleeding, known as hematoma or “bruising” of the penis. This bleeding may go unnoticed, but is sometimes visible as swelling, bruising or temporary deformity. This is called a “hematoma” or “bruise”, and has an eggplant appearance.
In most cases, this bleeding and trauma heal spontaneously without leaving any lasting effects. However, in some cases, the inflammatory reaction that follows this bleeding does not completely resolve. It develops into chronic inflammation, which leads to the formation of scar tissue in the
Why do some injuries lead to illness while others don’t?
What remains a mystery about Lapeyronie’s disease is why some people develop it after a shock, while others do not. Several factors may influence this evolution:
- Genetic factors: Some people have an inherited predisposition to developing abnormal scars.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, for example, is an aggravating factor, as it disrupts tissue vascularization and healing.
- Medical factors: the presence of other inflammatory diseases, notably systemic or vascular inflammatory diseases, can favour this evolution.
- Timing of onset of symptoms: In some patients, the curvature appears immediately after the trauma, while in others it may develop months or even years later. This latency complicates understanding and diagnosis.
Peyronie’s disease after a shock: symptoms to watch out for
It’s essential to know the warning signs that can indicate the onset of Lapeyronie’s disease, especially after trauma. Here are the most common symptoms:
- Pain: Localized pain in the penis, often present from the onset of the disease.
- Curvature: A deviation of the penis during erection, which can become progressively more pronounced.
- Loss of length or volume: The penis may appear shorter or less voluminous.
- Numbness or loss of sensitivity: A sensation of tingling or loss of sensitivity may appear in the traumatized area.
- Reduced erectile rigidity: Decreased ability to maintain a firm erection.
If you’ve suffered genital shock and are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a urologist as soon as possible. Early treatment can considerably improve the prognosis.
Why consult a urologist so quickly?
Lapeyronie’s disease is an inflammatory pathology. The earlier the inflammation is treated, the better the chances of limiting scar tissue formation and penile deformity. Early treatment also reduces pain and prevents the disease from becoming chronic.
During the consultation, the urologist will assess the condition of the penis, perform a clinical examination, and may prescribe further tests if necessary (ultrasound, rigidity measurement, etc.). They will then prescribe appropriate treatment, which may include:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs: To control the inflammatory reaction and limit the progression of scar tissue.
- Physical treatments: The use of a vacuum pump or other stretching devices can help rehabilitate tissues and limit curvature.
- Regular follow-up: To monitor disease progression and adjust treatment.
The importance of tissue re-education
In addition to drug treatment, it is often advisable to learn the principles of tissue re-education using an extension device, such as a vacuum pump. This treatment can be carried out under the supervision of an expert or trained healthcare professional. The aim is to help restore flexibility to the cavernous tissue and prevent excessive curvature.
Rehabilitation is a key step in maximizing the chances of recovery and avoiding subsequent surgery.
The consequences of untreated Lapeyronie’s disease
If not treated promptly, Lapeyronie’s disease can lead to significant complications:
- Severe curvature: A severe deformity of the penis that can interfere with intercourse and cause persistent pain.
- Erectile difficulties: Scar tissue formation can impair the ability to achieve or maintain an erection.
- Psychological impact: The disease can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety and even depression linked to sexual dysfunction.
- Loss of sexual function: In the most severe cases, sexuality can be severely impaired, affecting the quality of life of both patient and partner.
So it’s vital not to overlook symptoms, and to seek medical advice at the very first sign.
Treatments available for Lapeyronie’s disease
Treatment of Lapeyronie’s disease depends on the stage of the disease and the severity of symptoms. There are two phases:
- Inflammatory (acute) phase: This is the phase when the disease is active, with pain and inflammation. Treatment is aimed at reducing inflammation and limiting scar tissue formation.
- Chronic phase: The curvature has stabilized, pain has generally disappeared, but the deformity persists. Treatment may be medical, physical or surgical, depending on severity.
Medical and physical treatments
- Anti-inflammatory drugs: These are prescribed in the acute phase to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Shockwave therapy: Some studies suggest it can help reduce pain and improve tissue flexibility.
- Stretching devices: Vacuum pumps or stretching devices are recommended to improve flexibility and reduce curvature.
Surgical treatment
When the disease has stabilized and the curvature severely interferes with sex life, surgery may be considered. Surgical techniques include :
- Plicature: A technique in which the side opposite the scar plate is bent to straighten the penis.
- Grafting: The replacement of scar tissue with a graft.
- Penile implant : In cases of associated severe erectile dysfunction, an implant may be inserted.
The decision to resort to surgery is taken in consultation with the patient, based on his or her expectations, the severity of the disease and the results of conservative treatments.
Prevention and practical advice
Although Lapeyronie’s disease is not always preventable, certain measures can help reduce the risk:
- Avoid trauma: Take care during sports activities and sexual intercourse to minimize shocks to the penis.
- Stop smoking: Smoking aggravates scarring and vascularization.
- Seek prompt medical attention: In the event of shock or unusual pain, do not hesitate to consult a specialist.
- Follow appropriate treatment: If symptoms appear, strictly adhere to prescribed treatments.
Conclusion
Lapeyronie’s disease is a complex pathology that can occur after a shock to the genitalia. This inflammatory reaction leads to the formation of scar tissue, causing penile deformity, pain and sometimes erectile dysfunction. Despite medical advances, certain aspects of the disease remain poorly understood, such as why some injuries lead to the disease while others do not, or why the curvature can appear several years after a trauma.
It’s clear, however, that early treatment is essential. If you have suffered a shock or injury to the penis, and notice pain, curvature, loss of sensitivity or reduced erection quality, consult a urologist as soon as possible. Appropriate treatment, combining anti-inflammatory medication and tissue re-education, can greatly improve results and limit after-effects.
Don’t let the disease take hold without taking action. The key is vigilance, prevention and prompt treatment.
To learn more about Peyronie’s disease and other urological disorders, feel free to follow my regular publications on male sexual health.
