Circumcision is the removal of the penile foreskin and is thought to promote a clean glans and to minimize the risk of phimosis (tightening of the foreskin) in later life. It’s also thought to reduce the risk of penile cancer and cervical cancer in sexual partners, although the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) declared in 1971 that no valid medical reason exists for routine circumcision. However, subsequent research has led to reassessment and reevaluation of that position. Discussion about the medical benefits of circumcision continues to be an active discussion among pediatricians.

In Judaism, ritual circumcision (known as a bris milah) is a religious rite performed by a religious practitioner called a mohel on the eighth day after birth, when the neonate officially receives his name. Because most neonates are discharged before this time, a bris is rarely performed in the hospital. Moslems also perform ritual circumcisions. However, many Jewish or Moslem parents have their male babies circumcised without ritual at the hospital.

One method of circumcision involves removing the foreskin by using a Yellen clamp to stabilize the penis. With this device, a cone that fits over the glans provides a cutting surface and protects the glans penis. Another technique uses a plastic circumcision bell over the glans and a suture tied tightly around the base of the foreskin. This method prevents bleeding. The resultant ischemia causes the foreskin to slough off within 5 to 8 days. This method is thought to be painless because it stretches the foreskin, which inhibits sensory conduction.

Circumcision is contraindicated in neonates who are ill or who have bleeding disorders, ambiguous genitalia, or congenital anomalies of the penis, such as hypospadias or epispadias, because the foreskin may be needed for later reconstructive surgery.

Circumcision tray (contents vary but usually include circumcision clamps, various-sized cones, scalpel, probe, scissors, forceps, sterile basin, sterile towel, and sterile drapes)