LASER CIRCUMCISION
Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin, the fold of skin covering the head (glans) of the penis.
Circumcision on newborns may be performed after 24 hours of birth. It is typically performed during the first few months of life of children.
LASER CIRCUMCISION AT PSDU
Before circumcision:
- Patients are usually received in the preparation room by our nurses around 30 minutes prior to the procedure.
- They are checked by our nurses, correctly identified and an ID bracelet attached to their ankles.
- Parents are counselled regarding the Laser procedure, possible outcomes and complications with a thorough explanation of red flags and advice on when to seek urgent medical attention.
- Our surgeon will perform a physical examination of the baby to make sure that the baby is in good health to undergo the procedure and in the genital region there is no anatomic abnormalities and that the anatomy is normal for circumcision.
- Parents are counselled again regarding the procedure and informed consent is obtained.
During the procedure:
- A paracetamol suppository with dose dependent on the weight is given to baby.
- The baby is then transferred to the procedure room.
- A ‘Time-out’ is performed to correctly identify the patient and the intended procedure.
- During the procedure the baby will be soothed and monitored by our nurse with the help of sucrose solution.
- The penis and surrounding skin are prepped with a Chlorhexidine sponge, and draped with a sterile drape.
- A ‘ring block’ with local anesthetic will be performed at the base of the penis to give relief from pain for up to 8 hours.
- The foreskin is retracted and the adhesions which stick the skin to the glans in all baby boys are released.
- A surgical clip is placed across the foreskin ensuring the right amount of skin will be removed.
- Laser, which is high energy light, is used to cut the skin.
- Dr Niall makes sure there is no bleeding.
- The skin edges are joined with biological ‘super-glue’.
- Fucidin ointment is applied.
After the procedure:
- Baby is then sent back to Recovery and observed for 20 minutes. The area is then checked by our nurse making sure that there is no active bleeding and that the baby has had a wee.
- Baby will be discharged with aftercare instructions, paracetamol drops to be used when in pain and fucidin ointment to be applied to the penis for 5 days.
FAQs
- What is Laser?
- Is Laser a safe option?
- How long is the procedure?
- When to consult us after Circumcision?
Laser is high energy light. It was discovered over 60 years ago and is used a lot in Medicine and Surgery today. The frequency of the light is specific to baby’s tissues making sure that there will be no bleeding.
Laser is just another way surgeons have of cutting skin. It is well known to cause less damage to remaining skin, less bleeding and less infection. It has been used for Circumcision for many years with excellent results.
Laser circumcision is really quick, typically taking only 4 to 5 minutes to complete.
If you encounter any of the following issues, please contact us:
- Persistent bleeding that doesn’t subside after the circumcision.
- Noticeable increase in redness around the circumcision site.
- If your child develops a fever of 38⁰ C (100.4⁰ F) or higher.
- Presence of other signs of infection, such as worsening swelling, unusual discharge, or the appearance of pus-filled blisters.
- Inability to urinate normally within 12 hours after the circumcision procedure.
Your child’s well-being is our top priority, and we are here to address any concerns you may have. Do not hesitate to reach out to our professionals if you notice any of these problems. Prompt attention and care can help ensure a smooth recovery for your child after the circumcision.
