Penis extender
A penis extender is an external medical device with tentative evidence for Peyronie's disease as of 2019.[1] It acts as a mechanical traction device that stretches the penis in the flaccid state to make it longer.
Description
Penis extenders usually have a plastic ring that sits at the base of a flaccid penis, and another ring before the glans, with a traction device that runs along the sides of the organ. The wearer adjusts springs, which pull the penile shaft with the intention of literally stretching the flaccid penis to become longer.
Medical use
There is tentative evidence for use in Peyronie's disease.[1] Studies, as of 2019, however have been small in size, many had difficulty carrying out the treatment during the study period, and people were not blinded to the treatment that they were receiving.[1]
Adverse effects
Adverse effects are not extensively reported in the literature. They are usually mild and self-limiting; however, it may partly account for lack of patient compliance with penile traction therapy (PTT). The most commonly reported symptoms with PTT include pain, erythema, ecchymoses and pruritus. There has also been a case report of pubic bone edema associated with vigorous usage. In general, all of these adverse events are self-limited and resolve with discontinuation of the therapy.[1]
Aggressive uses of penis extenders can cause damage to skin, blood vessels or even result in a fractured penis.
See also
References
- 1 2 3 4 Valenzuela, R; Ziegelmann, M; Tokar, S; Hillelsohn, J (2018). "The use of penile traction therapy in the management of Peyronie's disease: current evidence and future prospects". Therapeutic Advances in Urology. 11: 1756287219838139. doi:10.1177/1756287219838139. PMC 6444402. PMID 30956689.