Laser circumcision

Abstract

Circumcision is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures. A large variety of techniques have been used, but unfortunately, complications such as pain, bleeding, swelling, stitch granuloma, scab formation, and removal of improper proportions of skin/mucous membrane occur in significant numbers. The authors present a technique using the carbon dioxide laser to excise the prepuce and weld the cut edges together, thus providing a completely bloodless operation. Suturing is optional as the laser can also be used to unite the cut edges. The technique allows exact proportions of skin and mucous membrane to be removed. This method has been used in a total of 1,154 patients ranging in age from infancy to 10 years. A detailed analysis of postooperative recovery and follow-up indicates that minor complications occurred in only 4 patients, none of whom required hospital admission.