Circumcision

What Happens During a Circumcision

Circumcision is usually done by a doctor at a clinic, in the hospital, or at an outpatient surgery center. During the procedure:

• The baby is placed on a firm surface. Velcro straps are wrapped around the baby's arms and legs to keep him very still.
• The penis is cleaned.
• The surgical area is often numbed with a local anesthetic while the baby stays awake. General anesthesia must be used for babies older than 2 to 3 months of age.
• A sterile circumcision clamp or device is placed over the head of the penis. The three most common types of clamps used are the Gomco clamp, the Mogen clamp, and the Plastibell device. Each clamp has pros and cons, although differences between the clamps are often minor. Most doctors use the clamp they are most comfortable with.
• The foreskin is removed using a sterile scalpel or scissors.

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Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: February 19, 2008
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Peter Anderson, MD, FRCS(C) - Pediatric Urology
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