PEDIATRIC CIRCUMCISION

What is circumcision?

Circumcision is the most common surgery among males. It is the removal of the foreskin (the sheath of tissue covering the head of the penis). In it is usually done on the first or second day after the baby’s birth. Circumcision can be done on older children and adults, but this can be more complicated because it needs general anaesthesia. Circumcision is an ancient practice that had its beginnings in religious rites. Today, it is done for both religious and medical reasons.

Benefits of Circumcision

Circumcision is a relatively simple procedure that is done in the hospital and has few complications. There has been some debate in the recent years if circumcision is medically necessary and the general agreement among healthcare providers is that circumcising newborns has benefits as well as risks and the decision is left to the parents.

Health benefits of circumcision are: –

Prevention of urinary tract infections in infants
Prevention of penile cancer in adult men
Reduced risk of developing certain sexually transmitted diseases
Reduced risk of developing cervical cancer in female sexual partners
Reduced risk of developing penis infection and swelling Common Risks of Circumcision
Bleeding
Infection
Pain
Reaction to anesthesia
Irritation of the glans

Circumcision Procedure

A circumcision is a simple procedure. The new born baby is placed on his back, with his arms and legs restrained. His penis area is cleaned. In most cases, an anesthetic is injected or applied as a cream. A clamp is attached to the penis and the excess foreskin is clipped off. An ointment may then be applied to the baby’s penis, which is wrapped in gauze. The procedure usually takes only five to 10 to 15 minutes.

Circumcision in older boys and adults takes about an hour. A general anesthetic may be required to control the pain. Stitches may be needed after the circumcision in an older male. Recovery from circumcision usually takes 8 to 10 days. Follow the instructions your doctor provides you.