Paraphimosis is a condition where the foreskin of the penis cannot return to its original position, causing swelling and pain. It can occur in uncircumcised men due to various reasons and can lead to gangrene if not treated promptly. Treatment options include manual reduction, surgical procedures, and circumcision.
Paraphimosis is a condition in which the foreskin of the penis cannot be returned to its original position. The foreskin usually gets stuck behind the head of the penis in these cases. This condition can only occur in males who are uncircumcised. In newborn boys, physiological paraphimosis can occur naturally but will eventually resolve as the boy ages. When it occurs after the foreskin has been retracted or after puberty, paraphimosis becomes an emergency medical condition.
In uncircumcised men, paraphimosis can be caused by an inability to pull the foreskin back after grooming or after intercourse, thus leaving the foreskin behind the head of the penis. Catheter insertion and thorough medical examinations of the penis can also lead to paraphimosis if the foreskin is not returned to its normal position after the examination. On rare occasions, ring piercings in the head of the penis can also lead to the condition.
Leaving the foreskin behind the penis for longer than necessary can lead to swelling of the head of the penis, which can trap the foreskin behind it. When the foreskin becomes trapped behind the head of the penis, it forms a constricting ring. This can cause edema or fluid buildup in the head of the penis. The head area of the penis may then appear very red and swollen, as well as being soft and sore.
As the edema continues to get worse, blood flow to the area is affected, which can lead to severe pain and sometimes gangrene if not corrected. Gangrene is the death of cells caused by loss of blood supply to the area, in this case the head of the penis, making it appear black or blue and firmer when touched. This process is irreversible and can lead to the amputation of the affected part. As soon as paraphimosis is suspected, men should seek immediate medical attention to prevent it from happening.
Treatment of paraphimosis often depends on the severity of the condition. Manual reduction is usually done by doctors, where a local anesthetic is used to reduce pain from the procedure and then the foreskin is retracted by manual manipulation. Surgical procedures may also be performed to reduce the edema of the penile head before manual reduction is performed. Circumcision, however, is the only treatment that can ensure that paraphimosis does not come back.
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