What is circumcision and what conditions does it treat?

Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin, which is the retractable fold of skin that covers the head (glans) of the penis. This practice has cultural, religious, and sometimes medical significance across different societies globally. Here’s an overview of what circumcision entails and the conditions it commonly addresses:

Procedure Overview:

During circumcision, the foreskin is surgically removed from the penis. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia for infants and older children, and sometimes under general anesthesia for adults. There are different techniques for circumcision, including:

• Conventional surgical circumcision: This involves using a surgical scalpel or scissors to cut and remove the foreskin. The edges of the remaining skin are then stitched or sealed with sutures.
• Plastibell circumcision: This method uses a plastic device (Plastibell) placed over the glans and under the foreskin. A ligature is tied around the foreskin, cutting off circulation. The Plastibell remains in place until the foreskin naturally falls off within a few days.

Conditions Treated by Circumcision:

1. Phimosis: This condition occurs when the foreskin is tight and cannot be pulled back over the head of the penis (glans). Circumcision can effectively treat severe cases of phimosis by removing the tight foreskin.
2. Para phimosis: Para phimosis occurs when the foreskin becomes trapped behind the glans and cannot be pulled back to its normal position over the head of the penis. Circumcision may be recommended in severe or recurrent cases to prevent future occurrences.
3. Recurrent Balanitis: Balanitis is inflammation of the glans or head of the penis. Circumcision can reduce the risk of recurrent balanitis by removing the foreskin, which can harbor bacteria and contribute to inflammation.
4. Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Some studies suggest that circumcision may lower the risk of urinary tract infections, particularly in infants and young boys. This reduction in risk is thought to be due to improved genital hygiene and reduced bacterial colonization under the foreskin.
5. Reduction in Risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Circumcision has been associated with a reduced risk of acquiring certain sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, herpes simplex virus (HSV), and human papillomavirus (HPV). This protective effect is believed to be due to the removal of the foreskin, which is vulnerable to micro-tears and can harbor pathogens.
6. Penile Cancer: Although rare, circumcision has been suggested to reduce the risk of penile cancer, particularly in cases where there is a history of chronic inflammation or infection of the foreskin (balanitis).

Conclusion:

Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin and is performed for medical, cultural, and religious reasons. It addresses conditions such as phimosis, Para phimosis, recurrent balanitis, and may have preventive benefits against UTIs, STIs, and penile cancer. The decision to undergo circumcision is influenced by medical considerations, cultural traditions, and individual preferences, highlighting its multifaceted significance in global healthcare practices.