ABSTRACT
The most common complication is scrotal hematoma, resulting from torn veins during the vas isolation. Chronic discomfort from congestion and/or granulation formation is rare but can occur.
In 2007, the World Health Organization (WHO) and Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) stated that “countries with high prevalence, generalized heterosexual HIV epidemics that currently have low rates of male circumcision consider urgently scaling up access to male circumcision services”.2 Studies from Africa have demonstrated that male circumcision reduces the risk of HIV infection by up to 60%. However, properly trained medical personnel and clean equipment are usually lacking. Traditional techniques of circumcision result in much higher rates of complications, such as bleeding, infection, postoperative pain, and erectile dysfunction (35.2%) compared with those circumcisions performed in a clinical setting with sterile technique (0.3-3.8%).3 Therefore, adequate access and technique are of utmost importance in the promotion and performance of male circumcision. Additional indications for circumcision include prevention of phimosis, irreducible paraphimosis and balanoposthitis, as well as recurrent urinary tract infections secondary to redundant foreskin and poor hygiene. The risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma of the penis is practically eliminated after circumcision.4 If congenital urethral or penile abnormalities are noted (i.e., hypospadias), circumcision should be deferred until the patient has been evaluated for corrective surgery as the foreskin may be used at the time of repair.
