In a nutshell
This study looked at the safety and effectiveness of collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) and vacuum therapy (VT) to treat Peyronie’s Disease (PD). The study found that CCH and VT could be a safe and effective treatment for PD.
Some background
Peyronie’s Disease is an abnormal curvature (bend) of the penis caused by build-up of scar tissue. Penile remodelling is a treatment for PD to stretch the penis and straighten it out. CCH is a type of protein taken from a bacteria that can break down the scar tissue. VT uses suction to promote blood flow to the penis. It is necessary to see if a combination of these therapies can help with PD.
Methods & findings
30 men with PD were studied. 15 of these men were given CCH with VT. The other 15 also received plaque remodelling for comparison (pressure at the area to stretch scar tissue). CCH was injected into the penis and VT was given twice daily, 2 weeks after the CCH injections. Remodelling was also performed 24-72 hours after injections.
After 36 weeks, improvement in penis curvature was similar in both groups. Between 66.7% and 92.3% of patients experienced either partial or total improvement. Common side effects were penile bruising, swelling and pain.
The bottom line
The study concluded that CCH and VT may be appropriate to treat PD, with or without penile remodelling.
The fine print
The study had a small sample size and follow-up was limited.
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about CCH and VT for treating PD.
Published By :
The journal of sexual medicine
Date :
Sep 30, 2017
