When such problems are present, repair can be accomplished through surgical procedures. The foreskin of the uncircumcised male forms a sort of band around the shaft of the penis. If injury, local infection, or swelling from almost any cause occurs and progresses, the band can act like a tourniquet. When this happens, the return of blood from the end portions of the penis are cut off, and further swelling can occur. This condition is known as phimosis.
Diagnosis is obvious from examination.
Treatment should be prompt, and consists of somewhat forceful withdrawing of the foreskin when possible, even if anesthesia is necessary. More often, the foreskin must be cut and removed to prevent recurrences, in effect a circumcision. Preventive measures include proper hygiene of the foreskin and underlying penis, and early attention when the patient first finds that retracting the foreskin is not easily done. This rather unusual disease is the formation of a contracture or shortening of one of the major tendons attaching the shaft of the penis to the supporting pelvic area. In the normal state, the patient may be unaware of this.