Should My Son Undergo Circumcision for Recurrent Infections?

Does a child need surgery if they have an infection?

Dear Doctor, my son is 3 years old and has had his second infection in the past two days.
His little brother is swollen like a small balloon, and he cries every time he urinates.
After seeing the doctor, it was suggested that he undergo circumcision.
I would like to know if circumcision is dangerous for a child? Will he need general anesthesia? Is the wound easy to care for? Will there be bleeding after the procedure? Does it hurt? I have many questions, and I am scared and unsure about what to do.
I have been troubled for a long time about whether to proceed with the circumcision or not.
Can the doctor help answer my questions? Thank you! A very worried mother.

Dān xīn de māmā, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/01/29

Dr. Weng Wenzhen reply Urology

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, if the foreskin can be cleaned properly, all the benefits claimed for circumcision can be achieved without the complications associated with the procedure.
Inflammation of the foreskin, which causes redness, swelling, heat, and pain, can show significant improvement if it can be retracted and cleaned.
In your son's case, it is possible that the smegma has developed into a purulent condition.
Circumcision in a 3-year-old child requires general anesthesia, and postoperative pain and swelling at the surgical site may last for about a week.
During the acute inflammatory phase, there is also a higher risk of wound infection.

Reply Date: 2004/01/29

More Info

When considering whether your son should undergo circumcision due to recurrent infections, it’s important to understand both the potential benefits and risks associated with the procedure. Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin from the penis. It is often recommended in cases where recurrent infections, such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), are present, particularly if these infections are linked to the presence of the foreskin.

Benefits of Circumcision
1. Reduced Risk of Infections: Circumcision can significantly reduce the risk of recurrent infections. The foreskin can trap bacteria and other pathogens, leading to inflammation and infection. By removing the foreskin, the area can be kept cleaner and more hygienic, potentially reducing the frequency of infections.

2. Easier Hygiene: After circumcision, maintaining hygiene becomes easier, as there is no foreskin to clean. This can be particularly beneficial for young children who may not be able to clean themselves adequately.

3. Lower Risk of Other Conditions: Circumcision has been associated with a lower risk of certain conditions, such as phimosis (where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted) and paraphimosis (where the retracted foreskin cannot be returned to its normal position).

Risks of Circumcision
1. Surgical Risks: As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including bleeding, infection at the surgical site, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. However, these complications are relatively rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced surgeon.

2. Pain and Discomfort: Post-operative pain is a concern, but this can be managed with appropriate pain relief medications. Most children recover quickly and experience minimal discomfort after the initial healing period.

3. Care of the Wound: After circumcision, the surgical site will require care to ensure proper healing. This typically involves keeping the area clean and applying any prescribed ointments. Parents are usually given clear instructions on how to care for the wound.

Anesthesia Considerations
Circumcision in young children is often performed under general anesthesia, which means your child will be asleep during the procedure. This is done to ensure that the child does not feel pain during the surgery. The anesthesiologist will discuss the risks and benefits of anesthesia with you prior to the procedure.

Post-Operative Care
After the procedure, it is normal for the area to be swollen and possibly bruised. You may notice some bleeding, but this is usually minimal. It is important to monitor the surgical site for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to ensure proper healing.

Decision-Making
Ultimately, the decision to circumcise should be made after careful consideration of the potential benefits and risks. It may be helpful to discuss your concerns with your child's pediatrician or a pediatric urologist, who can provide more personalized advice based on your son's specific medical history and the frequency and severity of his infections.

In conclusion, while circumcision can be an effective solution for recurrent infections, it is essential to weigh the risks and benefits carefully. Open communication with your healthcare provider will help you make an informed decision that is best for your son’s health and well-being.

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