Concerns About Retained Surgical Staples After Circumcision: What to Know

Q: Concerns About Retained Surgical Staples After Circumcision: What to Know

Hello： The physician's advice is also valid, and surgical removal can be considered. <br>Retained hardware in the body is not a normal occurrence, but it is not very uncommon either. <br>If the wound has healed and there are no signs of redness, swelling, pain, or infection, this

The nail from the circumcision device got stuck inside the skin?

Last December, I underwent a circumcision surgery.
A month later, I returned to the hospital where the doctor removed several stitches.
After another two weeks, I discovered that there were still some stitches left, so I went back to have those removed as well.
Since then, the swelling has not subsided, but the area around the wound has healed very well and is not painful.
I have been doing fine, and during this time, I have frequently engaged in masturbation without any issues.
However, occasionally, I experience some skin tearing, and the swelling remains.
Four months after the surgery, I went back to the hospital for a check-up and, by chance, an X-ray revealed that there are still some stitches inside.
Despite this, the area around the wound has healed well and is not painful, and I cannot locate the stitches.
The doctor mentioned that I would have to live with them for the rest of my life.
Is this situation normal? Could the stitches potentially cause pain in the future? The doctor said they are made of titanium alloy, so they won't rust, but I am still concerned about the possibility of them causing discomfort or complications later on.
I would appreciate any additional advice or opinions from the doctor, as there are still three stitches remaining inside.

Ye Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/20

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: The physician's advice is also valid, and surgical removal can be considered.
Retained hardware in the body is not a normal occurrence, but it is not very uncommon either.
If the wound has healed and there are no signs of redness, swelling, pain, or infection, this situation is generally considered relatively safe.
If the hardware is made of titanium alloy, it typically does not rust.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/04/20

More Info

After undergoing a circumcision procedure, it is understandable to have concerns about retained surgical staples, especially when they are discovered after the expected healing period. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the situation and what you should know.

Firstly, it is not uncommon for surgical staples or sutures to be left behind after a procedure, particularly if they are not easily visible or accessible during follow-up examinations. In your case, it seems that the staples were not detected during the initial follow-ups, which can happen due to various reasons, including the healing tissue obscuring the staples or the staples being located in a less accessible area.

The fact that your wound has healed well and is not causing you pain is a positive sign. Generally, if the surgical site is healing properly and you are not experiencing any signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge), the presence of retained staples may not pose an immediate risk. However, it is essential to monitor the situation closely.

Regarding your concerns about the staples potentially causing harm in the future, it is important to understand that surgical staples made from materials like titanium are designed to be biocompatible. This means they are less likely to cause adverse reactions in the body, and they do not rust or corrode. However, there is still a possibility, albeit low, that they could migrate or cause irritation over time. If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as increased pain, swelling, or changes in the appearance of the skin around the area, it would be prudent to seek medical attention.

In terms of your ongoing swelling, it is not uncommon for some degree of edema to persist after surgery, especially if the area has undergone significant manipulation. This can be exacerbated by activities such as masturbation, which may cause temporary irritation or trauma to the healing tissue. If the swelling does not resolve over time or worsens, it would be advisable to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

As for the retained staples, if they are not causing any discomfort or complications, your doctor may recommend a watchful waiting approach. However, if you have persistent concerns or if the situation changes, you should not hesitate to discuss the possibility of surgical removal with your healthcare provider. They can provide you with a thorough assessment and determine whether the benefits of removal outweigh the risks.

In conclusion, while the presence of retained surgical staples can be concerning, your current lack of pain and the good healing of the wound are encouraging signs. Continue to monitor the area for any changes, and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns you may have. If necessary, they can guide you on the best course of action moving forward. Remember, your health and peace of mind are paramount, so do not hesitate to advocate for yourself in your healthcare journey.

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