With the quiet opening of the long summer vacation, for families with young boys at home, this is not only a season for relaxation and exploration, but also a golden period to pay attention to children’s healthy growth and solve minor problems. In particular, regarding the issue of pediatric phimosis, the Department of Urology at Changde Fourth People’s Hospital hereby reminds that summer vacation is an ideal time for phimosis surgery.
1. What are pediatric phimosis and prepuce?
1. Phimosis
The prepuce completely covers the glans, but can be retracted by hand to expose the glans, which is called “phimosis.”
2. Paraphimosis
If the prepuce completely covers the glans, with a narrow preputial orifice that does not retract to expose the glans, it is called “paraphimosis.”
2. Harms of pediatric paraphimosis and phimosis
– It can easily lead to bacterial infections, inflammation of the prepuce and glans, and even ulcers, causing the child to become excited and neurotic.
– Due to penile itching, children may develop the habit of squeezing the penis with their hands, leading to masturbation.
– Some cases of paraphimosis with a narrow preputial orifice can cause slow urine flow, urinary retention, and even difficulty urinating, potentially damaging upper urinary tract organs.
– In cases of paraphimosis, if the prepuce is retracted to expose the glans, a constriction ring can form, leading to incarceration paraphimosis, ischemia, and even necrosis of the glans.
– Prolonged chronic irritation of the smegma is an important factor for inducing penile cancer.
3. When is surgery needed?
Most infants and young children have the phenomena of phimosis and paraphimosis, usually requiring parents to help clean the external genitalia. Consider surgery if the following conditions arise:
– Patients with frequent inflammation and infections due to phimosis.
– Paraphimosis affecting normal penile development, presence of abundant smegma, and inflammation of the prepuce.
– Children experiencing ballooning of the penis during urination and a thin stream of urine.
4. At what age can surgery be performed?
Surgery can be considered for children over 6 years old with paraphimosis and phimosis. Post-prepuce surgery will not adversely affect the child, but instead provide a better environment for penile development and hygiene.
5. How to care for the child post-surgery?
– Postoperative bathing is allowed after 7 days. Wear loose pants, avoid swimming, climbing, running, etc. Consume a bland diet, drink plenty of water, and avoid unhealthy readings and visual media.
– Postoperative pain can be relieved by distraction and rest. If unbearable, appropriate analgesics can be used. The preputial ring cutter usually falls off in 2-4 weeks. If bleeding persists, seek medical attention promptly.
Author: Department of Urology, Changde Fourth People’s Hospital, Hunan Medical Chat. For more health information, follow @Hunan Medical Chat!
