What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Spanish Collar

What is Paraphimosis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Paraphimosis may be defined as a condition where the foreskin of the penis (prepuce) is fixed in a retracted position, over the glans penis (or penis head)
• In other words, it is not possible to retract the foreskin to cover the penis head. This condition is a potential emergency and requires immediate medical attention and treatment
• Paraphimosis causes the foreskin of the penis to be stuck, leading to swollen glans penis and pain. It can be caused be several factors such as infections, skin disorders, and even vigorous sexual activity
• The healthcare provider may attempt to pull back the foreskin under anesthesia, to treat the condition, or a surgery may be performed
• The prognosis of Paraphimosis is generally excellent with immediate and appropriate treatment. However, it also depends upon the underlying cause and the prognosis can be poor, if the treatment is delayed

Who gets Paraphimosis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Paraphimosis is an uncommon condition that affects both boys and men (usually adults)
• The condition is observed worldwide and no geographical preference is seen. Males of all racial and ethnic background may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Paraphimosis? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Paraphimosis may include the following:

• Physiologic phimosis in children and pathologic phimosis
• Chronic infections
• Poor hygiene
• Vigorous sexual activity
• Contact dermatitis
• Lichen sclerosis
• Trauma or injury to the groin region
• Paraphimosis can occur in healthcare facilities during surgical procedures, such as Foley’s catheter insertion

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Paraphimosis? (Etiology)

• Paraphimosis occurs when the prepuce of the penis is unable to return to its normal position and cover the head of the penis; the glans penis stays exposed
• It may be caused by a set of several factors affecting the penis that includes skin conditions, infections, poor hygiene, injury, and intense sex

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Paraphimosis?

The signs and symptoms of Parahimosis may include:

• The foreskin is too tight or stuck in a retracted position and the glans penis stays uncovered
• Pain is the main symptom
• Bluish discoloration from the penis tip is an indication of Paraphimosis
• Swollen penis head that may be painful

How is Paraphimosis Diagnosed?

The following are the diagnostic methods that may be helpful for Paraphimosis:

• A thorough physical examination and a complete medical history is very important
• Blood tests and urine tests
• Tests and examinations as required for underlying conditions or infections

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Paraphimosis?

The complications due to Paraphimosis may include:

• Individuals may have severe stress and anxiety issues
• Any attempt by the individual to forcibly close the penis head can cause bleeding, pain, and scarring of the tissue, which makes the condition worse
• Severe discomfort and pain during sex
• If emergency medical care is not provided, then it can lead to gangrene formation with permanent tissue death

How is Paraphimosis Treated?

In a majority of cases, emergency treatment may be required to address Paraphimosis. The following treatment measures may be considered:

• Under the influence of local anesthesia, the healthcare provider may attempt to pull back the foreskin into its normal position, over the penile head
• Surgical treatment measures may include prepucioplasty procedure: It is the partial removal of the prepuce to decrease the pressure, making it easier for the prepuce to retract over the glans penis
• Treatment of the underlying condition that caused Paraphimosis
• Circumcision may be considered after retraction of the foreskin, usually when individuals present with severe signs and symptoms
• Providing reassurance and helping with anxiety feelings
• Abstinence from sex, until the condition heals completely

How can Paraphimosis be Prevented?

The following factors may be considered towards the preventative steps for Paraphimosis:

• Prevent phimosis by treating any infections early and in a timely fashion
• Refraining from intense sexual activities or ensuring care during sexual activity may be helpful in some cases
• Maintain personal hygiene including keeping the genitalia clean, which may prevent the condition from getting worse
• Circumcision can prevent occurrence of Paraphimosis
• Early medical care and treatment of any penile lesions
• Avoid forcibly pulling the foreskin over the penis head; for this may cause additional complications

What is the Prognosis of Paraphimosis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Paraphimosis is an infrequent condition, though it needs to be addressed on an emergency basis. Prompt medical attention and appropriate treatment can ensure an excellent prognosis
• However, the outcome also depends upon the underlying reason for Paraphimosis, and the prognosis can be poor, if the treatment is delayed

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Paraphimosis:

• There are 2 types of phimosis and these include physiologic phimosis and pathologic phimosis
• Circumcision is the surgical removal of skin around the tip of the penis, which is also known as the foreskin or prepuce

The following article link will help you understand circumcision:

http://www.dovemed.com/common-procedures/procedures-surgical/circumcision/