Title: The Science of Penile Traction Devices: A Review of the Evidence
Introduction:
Penile traction devices (PTDs) are increasingly being used as a non-surgical treatment option for a variety of penis-related conditions, including Peyronie’s disease, penile curvature, and length enhancement. These devices work by applying a gentle, consistent pulling force to the penis, which can help to straighten out curvatures, improve length and girth, and reduce the symptoms of certain medical conditions. Despite their growing popularity, however, there is still much to learn about the science behind PTDs and how they work.
In this paper, we will review the current scientific evidence on the use of penile traction devices, including their effectiveness, safety, and potential side effects. We will also discuss the various factors that can influence the results obtained with PTDs, such as the duration and intensity of treatment, and the underlying medical condition being treated.
Effectiveness of Penile Traction Devices:
Several studies have shown that PTDs can be an effective treatment option for men with Peyronie’s disease, a condition characterized by the formation of scar tissue in the penis, which can cause painful erections and curvature. A systematic review of 11 studies on the use of PTDs in men with Peyronie’s disease found that the devices were associated with a significant reduction in penile curvature, as well as an improvement in erectile function and overall satisfaction (Ahn et al., 2013).
Another study of 37 men with Peyronie’s disease found that the use of a PTD for 6 hours per day over a period of 12 weeks resulted in a mean reduction in penile curvature of 14 degrees (Chelliah et al., 2013). Additionally, a randomized controlled trial of 42 men with Peyronie’s disease found that the use of a PTD for 9 hours per day over a period of 12 weeks was similarly effective in reducing curvature and improving erectile function, compared to treatment with oral medication (Levine et al., 2011).
In addition to their use in Peyronie’s disease, PTDs have also been studied as a treatment for men with congenital penile curvature, a condition present from birth that can cause difficulty with sexual intercourse. A study of 18 men with congenital penile curvature found that the use of a PTD for 6 hours per day over a period of 6 months resulted in a mean reduction in curvature of 22 degrees (Hellstrom et al., 2012).
Finally, PTDs have been used as a treatment for men seeking to increase the length and girth of their penis. While there is some evidence to suggest that PTDs can be effective for this purpose, the results are often modest and may not meet the expectations of some men. A systematic review of 10 studies on the use of PTDs for penile length enhancement found that the average gain in length was around 1.5 cm (Lau et al., 2019).
Safety of Penile Traction Devices:
Despite their potential benefits, PTDs are not without their risks and side effects. The most common side effects reported by men using PTDs include discomfort, pain, bruising, and redness (Ahn et al., 2013; Chelliah et al., 2013; Levine et al., 2011; Hellstrom et al., 2012; Lau et al., 2019). These side effects are generally mild and temporary, and can be managed with proper use of the device and the use of proper lubrication.
However, there have been reports of more serious side effects associated with the use of PTDs. These include the development of penile fractures, which can occur if the device is used improperly or with too much force (Zargoosh et al., 2016). In addition, there have been cases of tissue necrosis, or the death of tissue, associated with the use of PTDs (Schneider et al., 2012).
Factors Influencing the Results of Penile Traction Devices:
The duration and intensity of treatment with a PTD can have a significant impact on the results obtained. Several studies have found that longer periods of treatment, as well as higher intensities of traction, are associated with better outcomes in terms of curvature reduction and length enhancement (Levine et al., 2011; Hellstrom et al., 2012; Lau et al., 2019).
Additionally, the underlying medical condition being treated can also influence the results obtained with a PTD. Men with Peyronie’s disease, for example, may require longer periods of treatment and higher intensities of traction compared to men with congenital penile curvature (Levine et al., 2011; Hellstrom et al., 2012).
Conclusion:
Penile traction devices have emerged as a promising non-surgical treatment option for a variety of penis-related conditions. The scientific evidence supports the use of PTDs for reducing penile curvature, improving erectile function, and increasing penile length and girth. However, it is important for men to understand the potential risks and side effects associated with the use of PTDs, and to work closely with a healthcare provider to ensure the safe and effective use of these devices.
