✦ Phimosis Treatment

Emergency Dorsal Slit (paraphimosis)

Q: Is a dorsal slit the same as circumcision?

No — dorsal slit makes a single incision to relieve constriction; circumcision is the complete removal of the foreskin, planned separately.

Q: Will I always need circumcision after a dorsal slit?

Formal circumcision is strongly recommended after dorsal slit to prevent recurrent paraphimosis in the future. Your consultant will provide specific guidance based on your individual clinical situation and recovery.

Q: How long does swelling last after paraphimosis treatment?

Glans swelling typically resolves over 2–5 days; circumcision is planned after complete resolution. Your consultant will provide specific guidance based on your individual clinical situation and recovery.

Emergency Foreskin Incision to Relieve Paraphimosis

10–20 min PROCEDURE

Day Care HOSPITAL STAY

>98% SUCCESS RATE

1 Week RECOVERY

What is Emergency Dorsal Slit (paraphimosis)?

Emergency Dorsal Slit is a rapid bedside or theatre procedure to relieve paraphimosis — a urological emergency where the foreskin, once retracted, becomes stuck behind the glans and cannot be returned, causing vascular compromise. A dorsal longitudinal incision is made through the constricting preputial band, immediately releasing the constriction and restoring blood flow. Definitive circumcision is planned electively after healing. The procedure is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia with a hospital stay of Day Care. Success rates reach >98% in appropriately selected patients at experienced centres.

Patients presenting with paraphimosis — retracted foreskin causing painful glans swelling and constriction — where manual reduction has failed. Patients must be adequately fit for anaesthesia and free from active systemic infection before proceeding.

How the Procedure Works

Manual Reduction Attempt

Manual reduction of paraphimosis attempted first with firm sustained compression.

Local Anaesthesia

If manual reduction unsuccessful, local anaesthetic injected into the foreskin.

Incision & Access

Dorsal slit incision made through the constricting band using scissors or blade.

Constriction Release

Constriction released; foreskin returned over the glans.

Wound Closure

Wound edges sutured or left to heal by secondary intention.

Outcomes

10–20 minDURATION

Day CareHOSPITAL STAY

>98%SUCCESS RATE

1 WeekFULL RECOVERY

Who Needs This Treatment?

→Immediate relief of painful vascular constriction in paraphimosis.
→Prevents ischaemic injury to the glans from prolonged constriction.
→Can be performed under local anaesthesia at the bedside.
→No risk of ischaemia to the foreskin from incision.
→Definitive treatment (circumcision) planned electively once swelling resolves.
→Rapid, simple, and highly effective emergency procedure.

"Emergency dorsal slit is the fastest and most reliable way to treat paraphimosis. Prompt action prevents ischaemic damage to the glans — delay is the only mistake one can make in this condition."

— — Dr. Vipin Reddy, Consultant Urologist, Andrologist & Renal Transplant Surgeon

Common Questions

Frequently Asked

Is a dorsal slit the same as circumcision?+

Will I always need circumcision after a dorsal slit?+

How long does swelling last after paraphimosis treatment?+

Not sure which treatment is right for you?

Book a consultation with Dr. Vipin Reddy and get a personalised treatment plan.

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