Paraphimosis

Paraphimosis can have various causes, often due to improper handling of the foreskin or underlying medical conditions. It occurs more frequently in uncircumcised men.

• Improper handling of the foreskin: A common cause is retracting the foreskin (e.g., during cleaning or medical examinations) and forgetting to return it to its normal position.
• Catheterization: In patients who require a bladder catheter, it can happen that the foreskin is not properly repositioned, leading to paraphimosis.
• Phimosis: A tight or constricted foreskin can contribute to it not sliding back over the glans properly after retraction.
• Infections or inflammations: Inflammation of the foreskin or glans can lead to swelling, which promotes paraphimosis.

• Swelling of the glans
• Pain in the penis
• Trapped foreskin behind the glans
• Blue or dark discolored glans (due to lack of blood supply)
• Difficulty urinating

The diagnosis of paraphimosis is usually made through a physical examination. The swelling of the glans and the blocked retraction of the foreskin make the condition easily recognizable. Since it is a medical emergency, a quick diagnosis is crucial to restore blood supply to the glans and prevent tissue damage.

The treatment of paraphimosis requires immediate medical intervention to return the foreskin to its normal position and relieve pressure on the glans. Depending on the severity of the paraphimosis, the following methods may be used:

• Manual repositioning: In most cases, the foreskin is manually pushed back. The penis is prepared with a numbing cream or cold treatment to reduce swelling.
• Surgical intervention: If manual reduction is unsuccessful, a small surgical incision (dorsal slit) may be necessary to release the foreskin.
• Circumcision: In severe or recurrent cases, a complete circumcision may be necessary to permanently resolve the issue.

To prevent paraphimosis, it is important to always return the foreskin to its original position after retraction, especially after medical procedures or when cleaning the penis. Men with a tight foreskin or phimosis should consult a doctor to take appropriate measures to reduce the risk of paraphimosis. Regular hygiene and preventive examinations can also help prevent infections or inflammations.