[Application of traction therapy for Peyronie's disease: present and prospect]

Peyronie's disease is an acquired connective tissue disorder affecting the tunica albuginea of the corpus cavernosum, causing penile plaque formation and persistent scar. It typically affects males between the ages of 45 and 60 years. The exact cause of Peyronie's disease is not clear and its pathological and physiological performance is the local deposition of fibrin and collagen. Men afflicted by this disorder may present with erectile pain, penile deformity (such as penile curvature or penile shortening), psychological disorder and/or erectile dysfunction. Though many medical and surgical options have been developed for the treatment of Peyronie's disease and each has its own indications, advantages and disadvantages, none of them produces very desirable effect. The studies of traction therapy for Peyronie's disease have been gradually increased in recent years. Traction therapy can be employed as a solo therapy or a part of combination therapy, preoperative or postoperative therapy for Peyronie's disease. Recent researches show that traction therapy can prevent the progression of scar, restore the length and diameter of a short penis, reduce the curvature of the penis and improve sexual function. However, large sample, multi-center, randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm its validity for Peyronie's disease. In addition, more endeavors should be exerted at its pathogenesis in order to achieve effective prevention and cure of the disease.