Plastibell circumcision: How safe is it?: Experience at Sultan Qaboos university hospital

Background: Plastibell circumcision complications can be life-threatening. Objective: The aim of this paper is to review the complications of Plastibell circumcision reported in the literature and in our own patients to determine the safety of the procedure. Method: A retrospective study of 171 neonates circumcised in Sultan Qaboos University Hospital over a 4-year period from 1997 to 2000. Results: Minor complications occurred in 4 (2.3 %) of circumcisions. Two cases were converted to formal circumcision due to bleeding and failure to introduce the bell respectively. One had delayed passage of urine for 24 hours and in one neonate, the parents were concerned about inadequate removal of foreskin. Conclusion: Plastibell circumcision is a safe technique in experienced hands. The risk of complications with this procedure is increased eight-fold when performed by nurses compared to surgeons.