This is an operation that involves removing the foreskin which is the skin that surrounds the gland at the level of the penis.
What are the circumstances of circumcision?
We can distinguish between two cases: the case of a religious practice and the case of a medical or surgical treatment.
What is the religious reason of circumcision?
Circumcision is practiced in a religious way mainly by Jews and Muslims and long before them, by Egyptians in the days of the Pharaohs and by Christians (the Copts). The objective would be to confirm the relationship with God.
What are the medical consequences of circumcision?
The main result is phimosis. The latter consists of a too tight foreskin that requires a medical and surgical emergency. The main circumstance of discovery is urinary tract infection, which has become high, can progress to sepsis and cause death.
What are the other purposes related to circumcision?
Recent studies have shown that circumcision can prevent transmission of the AIDS virus. Some communities practice circumcision for hygienic reasons.
How does circumcision take place?
This is a surgical procedure. So, a consultation with the surgeon and the anesthesiologist is obligatory. The surgeon can operate under local or general anesthesia. The child can return the same day just after waking up from anesthesia.
What are the postoperative consequences?
The child may feel pain, the doctor has to prescribe a pain medication.
Are there risks?
Like any treatment, there is a risk of complications. The risks related to circumcision are hemorrhagic, infectious, or anesthetic.
How to prevent the complications?
A careful examination and preoperative assessment can prevent these complications. In addition, a good hygiene before, during, and after the operation is crucial.
Last update : 21/08/2019
