Paraphimosis and
phimosis are abnormalities that occur involving the penis and its ability
to retract or extrude from the prepuce. Paraphimosis refers to the presence
of an engorged (distended) penis that cannot be retracted into it's normal
position because of constriction of the preputial orifice. Phimosis in
constriction of the orifice of the prepuce so that it cannot be drawn back
over the glans. The causes of each are different.
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A Normal
Canine Penis
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Examination
of Normal Canine Penis
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Causes of Paraphimosis
Usually associated with erection or copulation (the mating process).
Hair surrounds the preputial orifice and can become entangled around
the base of the penis, forming a restrictive band, which then prevents
retraction of the penis.
A stenotic or narrowed preputial opening
Acquired secondary to injury, penis fracture, a foreign body (i.e.rubber
band), persistent abnormal erection (priapism), neoplasia (cancer), and
inflammation of the penis and prepuce (chronic balanoposthitis).
Causes of Phimosis
Congenital preputial stenosis in the dog. It is possibly genetic
in the German shepherd and golden retriever.
Secondary to inflammation, edema (accumulation of fluid within the
penis), neoplasia (cancer), or scar tissue.
Persistent penile/preputial frenulum (thin band of tissue joining
the penis and prepuce).
What to Watch For
Unsuccessful attempts to copulate
Inability to urinate with pooling of urine in the preputial cavity
Dribbling urine
Excessive licking of an exteriorized penis
Necrosis/trauma of the penis and obstruction of urine flow
Diagnosis
Examination of the penis and prepuce
A flaccid (soft) penis that cannot be extruded from the prepuce
Treatment
Paraphimosis
Requires immediate treatment. Sedation is sometimes required to provide
therapy.
The penis is examined and any restricting hairs are removed. Swelling
is minimized with cool water soaks and or “dextrose” solutions. The penis
is cleaned and lubricated and replaced in the prepuce. The goal is replacement
of the penis to normal position.
A urinary catheter may be necessary to ensure the passage of urine.
Amputation may be required in certain cases.
Phimosis
Surgical enlargement of the preputial orifice, or removal of the
penile frenulum.
Home Care and Prevention
Maintain any recommended therapy by your veterinarian.
Precautions taken prior to and following coitus can help prevent
paraphimosis.
Hairs around the preputial orifice should be clipped prior to breeding.
After coitus the penis and prepuce should be inspected frequently
until the penis has completely retracted into the prepuce.
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The above information is simply informational.
It's intent is not to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you
in making a diagnosis of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian
for confirmation of any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.
