Phimosis

Abstract

Phimosis is the inability of the penis to extend beyond the preputial orifice. The condition is rare and can have a number of developmental and acquired causes. Developmental disorders that lead to phimosis include a smaller than appropriate preputial opening, an inherently small or short penis, or persistence of tissue bands that connect the penis to the preputial mucosa. Phimosis may also be the consequence of an excessively thick penis, as may be seen in cases of neoplasia. Most cases of phimosis due to a congenital cause manifest in juvenile or young adult dogs. Other than by direct examination, the diagnosis can be made using contrast radiography or ultrasonography. All reported cases of phimosis required surgical correction. In its simplest form, corrective surgery involves the widening of an excessively narrow preputial opening.