ABSTRACT
Peyronie's disease (PD) is an often debilitating condition caused by fibrosis of the tunica albuginea (TA) of the penis resulting in difficulty with coitus in many patients. Plaques are usually unifocal (78–84%) and located on the dorsum of the penile shaft (46–62%). The TA is composed of connective tissue with inner circular and outer longitudinal layers surrounding the corpora cavernosa. PD can be diagnosed by history and palpating a penile plaque. Treatment is designed to improve coital function and result in a satisfactory, comfortable erection for both patient and partner. Non-surgical treatment options focus on limiting inflammatory and fibrotic processes that lead to abnormal wound healing and scar formation resulting in plaque and erectile deformity. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) at low intensity delivers directed ultrasound energy to the scar plaque. The choice of a surgical procedure depends on each patient's needs and preferences.
