The effect of penile traction device in men with Peyronie's disease on penile curvature, penile length, and erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Level 2 - randomized trial
Systematic review and meta-analysis combining randomized controlled trials and non-randomized cohort studies.
PubMed 38106680 · doi:10.21037/tau-23-310
What was done
A systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of penile traction devices (PTDs) compared to matched placebo or follow-up in men with Peyronie's disease. Eligible designs were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies measuring penile curvature, penile length, and erectile function. Risk of bias was evaluated with the Cochrane tool for RCTs and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for observational studies.
What was found
Five studies (published 2014–2021) with 419 total patients (sample sizes 51–110, mean follow-up 6.75 months) were included. PTD therapy demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in curvature degree (P = 0.0373). There was no significant effect on penile length (P = 0.5315) or erectile function (P = 0.1010). Total heterogeneity was estimated at 0. Numerical effect sizes and confidence intervals were not reported in the abstract.
Why it matters
Penile traction devices offer a non-invasive option to reduce penile curvature in Peyronie's disease, but current evidence fails to show benefits for penile length or erectile dysfunction.
Limits
The review included only five studies and 419 total patients, pooling randomized trials with observational cohort designs. Follow-up was relatively short (mean 6.75 months), and specific numerical effect estimates were not reported in the abstract.
Cited by
- supports Penile traction devices can help straighten penile curvature caused by Peyronie's disease.