Comparing Circumcision Treatment Techniques: Which Is Better?
In This Article
Comparing Circumcision Treatment Techniques: Which Is Better?
Indu
Updated on February 08, 2024
Medically verified by Dr. Arya
Fact checked by Dr. Pournami
Considering circumcision? But overwhelmed by different treatment techniques? Don’t worry, you are not alone.
Different techniques for performing circumcision and not knowing what’s best makes it difficult for many men to choose a specific one.
One usually chooses according to one’s age, medical conditions and doctor’s recommendations.
Mykare Health is here to help you learn the difference between various circumcision techniques, from comparing the techniques to choosing the best surgeon.
Let's dive in.
Surgical Methods
Conventional Surgical Circumcision | Plastibell Circumcision | Gomco Clamp Circumcision |
---|---|---|
A scalpel is used to make an incision around the circumference of the foreskin. The foreskin is then separated from the glans. Excess foreskin is removed | A plastic ring (Plastibell) is placed over the glans, and the excess foreskin is tied off. | The Gomco clamp is applied to the foreskin. |
Tools used are scalpel, surgical scissors, and clamps. | Tool used is a Plastibell device. | The excess foreskin is then cut away. |
Stitches may be used to close the incision. | No stitches are required | Tool used is a Gomco clamp. |
Commonly performed on newborns and adults. | Stitches may be needed to close the incision. | |
Commonly used in paediatric circumcisions |
Device- Assisted Methods
Device-assisted methods for circumcision involve the use of specific devices to secure and facilitate the removal of the foreskin.
Here are the two of them:
Gomco Clamp Circumcision is a device applied to the foreskin. The excess foreskin is then cut away.
Mogen Clamp Circumcision involves the use of Mogen clamp to the foreskin.
What is Stapler Circumcision - Everything You Need to Know
Is Circumcision Good or Bad - Here's How to Find Out
Circumcision - Scientific Guide to All Your Questions
Get a Callback Now
Laser And Electrocautery Techniques
Both laser and electrocautery techniques are good in terms of precision and reduced bleeding during the procedure.
The choice depends upon the surgeon’s expertise. It is always better to discuss with your healthcare provider.
Want to understand how these procedures work? Here you go:
Laser technology is used to make precise incisions and remove the foreskin. The equipment used here is a laser. There is less bleeding compared to other methods.
Electrocautery (electric current) is used to cut and cauterise the foreskin. The cautery helps control bleeding.
The tools used here are electrocautery equipment.
Anaesthesia And Pain Management
You must know about anaesthesia and how different modes of anaesthesia are related to pain management.
Description | Pain Management and Risks | Recovery |
---|---|---|
Local Anaesthesia - Applied to numb the area , Administered through injection to specific nerve blocks or the base of the penis. | Numbs the surgical area , Well-tolerated procedure. | Recovery is faster, Postoperative care may involve managing any discomfort and complications. |
General Anesthesia - Less common for routine circumcisions | Risks-complications associated with general anaesthesia, Benefits-completely unconsciousness during the procedure. | Longer recovery time, Postoperative care involves monitoring for the effects of anaesthesia. |
Paediatric Vs Adult Circumcision
Paediatric Circumcision:
It is performed on newborns within the first few days to weeks of life.
Parents usually make the decision, usually based on cultural or religious beliefs, or personal choice.
In most cases, infants recover quickly, and the healing process is well-tolerated.
Postoperative care involves monitoring for infection and ensuring proper wound healing.
Adult Circumcision:
-
There may be personal or religious reasons here.
-
The procedure may be more complex due to the larger size of the adult penis.
-
Recovery time may be longer compared to pediatric cases.
-
Postoperative care involves managing pain, monitoring for complications, and ensuring proper wound care.
Cultural And Ethical Considerations
Circumcision is usually associated with religious rituals, traditional ceremonies, or rites of passage.
Circumcision holds religious significance in certain faiths, such as Judaism and Islam. It may be considered a covenant with God or a religious obligation.
Cultural norms and societal expectations can influence the decision to circumcise.
In some cultures, circumcision is seen as a symbol of identity, cleanliness, or adherence to tradition.
Ethical Considerations
Here’s what you must be mindful of.
-
Ethical concerns arise regarding the ability to provide informed consent, where the decision is made by parents. Respecting the autonomy of individuals is necessary, and ethical guidelines involves the importance of providing comprehensive information.
-
Ethical discussions involve balancing any medical benefits of circumcision with the personal choice of the individual.
-
Understanding and respecting cultural diversity helps build trust and facilitate open communication with patients and families.
-
Parents or individuals should not feel pressured to undergo circumcision against their will.
-
Ethical decision-making involves considering the personal beliefs and values of the individuals involved.
Conventional surgical circumcision may require experienced surgeons.
It involves bleeding and infection and takes longer healing time compared to other methods
In Device-Assisted Methods expertise of surgeons is important. Bleeding is less but there could be complications.
Laser Circumcision involves precise incisions with less bleeding. heals faster compared to other methods.
Cauterisation in Electrocautery Circumcision helps control bleeding. Might heal faster.
Local Anaesthesia is commonly used and well-tolerated. It is suitable for various age groups, including infants. You won’t be completely unconscious.
General Anaesthesia ensures complete unconsciousness during the procedure. Recovery time is longer.
Newborns have a different response to anaesthesia and recover more quickly.
Patient preferences, cultural norms, and ethical considerations should be considered for circumcision.