Related articles: Paraphimosis
Definition
Paraphimosis is the entrapment of the foreskin in a retracted and stenotic position behind the glans.
This condition must be treated as a urological emergency, since the preputial ring surrounds the glans at the base, tightening it strongly and preventing any possibility of sliding. The constriction that follows can quickly lead to vascular compromise of the male sexual organ.
Paraphimosis depends on the narrowness of the preputial ring and develops acutely due to an improper retraction of the prepuce below the coronal groove of the glans. It can therefore manifest due to an involuntary mechanical trauma (eg sudden retraction of the preputial skin or placement of a catheter).
Most common symptoms and signs *
- Pain in the penis
- Edema
- Urinary retention
- Skin Ulcers
Further indications
Paraphimosis is characterized by the entrapment of the preputial skin behind the glans. If the retracted foreskin is tight and cannot resume its original position, it functions as a tourniquet that increases the size of the glans, thus worsening the condition. The choking below the coronal groove by the preputial ring determines, in fact, a venous stagnation from which a local edema follows. At the same time, paraphimosis causes painful symptoms.
In the absence of an urgent treatment, mucosal ulcerations and ischemic necrosis may occur due to reduction of the arterial blood supply.
In the case of paraphimosis, therefore, it is necessary to immediately contact a specialist to try to solve the picture manually (by compressing the edema). If this does not prove sufficient, a dorsal incision can be made in the foreskin under local anesthesia, followed by circumcision.
