The correction of penile curvature with the Essed-Schroder technique: a long-term follow-up assessing functional aspects and quality of life

Objectives To investigate, in a retrospective analysis using a detailed que stionnaire, the long-term functional results in and quality of life (QoL) o f patients after undergoing the Essed-Schroder procedure, a standard techni que for correcting penile curvature. Patients and methods From 1994 to 1999, 40 patients (median age 24 years) h ad their penile curvature corrected using a modified Essed-Schroder techniq ue. Assessments by the investigators and a self-completed questionnaire wer e used to evaluate the functional and cosmetic aspects of the procedure, an d QoL issues. Results Complete follow-up data were available in 31 of the 40 (78%) patien ts (19 with congenital curvature and 12 with Peyronie's disease). The media n follow-up was 22 months. The degree of penile angulation before surgery w as estimated as < 45 degrees in five patients, 45-90 degrees in 22 and > 90 degrees in four. In 21 patients (68%) sexual intercourse was uncomfortable or impossible; 26 (84%) reported an impaired QoL because of the penile cur vature. After surgery the cosmetic and functional result was good or suffic ient in 25 patients (81%); all 25 were able to have sexual intercourse with no problems. Penile shortening (> 2 cm) was reported by six patients. A si gnificant improvement in QoL was reported by 15 patients (48%), but of the 12 patients with Peyronie's disease before surgery, six reported impaired r igidity and two recurrence of their penile curvature afterward. Whereas onl y seven of 12 patients with Peyronie's disease reported good functional res ults, 18 of the 19 with congenital curvature reported good or excellent res ults after surgery. Conclusion The Essed-Schroder method is a simple operation which provides g ood functional and cosmetic results. Patients with congenital curvature of the penis have better results than those with Peyronie's disease.