PHIMOSIS

Phimosis

Phimosis, or tight foreskin, is a condition where the glans is not exposed when the foreskin (i.e. the skin covering the head of the penis) is retracted backwards.

Causes

Conditions associated with the development of phimosis are the following:

  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Chronic inflammation
  • Poor local hygiene
  • Injury during sexual intercourse
  • Skin conditions, e.g. balanitis xerotica obliterans

Complications of Phimosis

  • Recurrent urinary tract infections, inflammations of the glans and foreskin
  • Painful intercourse resulting in erectile dysfunction
  • Urinary retention due to full obstruction of the glans
  • Premature ejaculation
  • Increased risk of developing penile cancer
  • Paraphimosis

Treatment

Treatment may be conservative or surgical.

  • Conservative treatment

Recommended during the early stages of the disease, when the foreskin is still elastic.

Hydrocortisone creams are applied for 20 to 30 days.

Improvement occurs after the second week of application.

  • Surgical management

When scar tissue has formed on the foreskin, medication is not effective and a surgical procedure, referred to as circumcision, is required.

fimosi 02

In this procedure, which is conducted under anesthesia, the affected part of the foreskin is removed and suturing is performed according to plastic surgery standards.