Plastibell

The Plastibell circumcision device is a clear lightweight plastic in the shape of a bell with an attached handle (see photograph).It comes in various sizes to fit newborns, infants and toddlers. The bell portion is designed to cover the glans while the foreskin is pulled over it and secured with a string (ligature). The ligature sits in a groove at the top of the bell so that when tied, the ligature will compress the excess foreskin, cutting off its circulation. The unwanted foreskin can now be removed by cutting around the bell while it protects the glans from injury. The key is choosing the correct size device since too large a bell will cause excessive tension on the remaining foreskin and pull the bell over the glans onto the penile shaft. On the other hand , if  the bell size chosen is too small, an inadequate amount of foreskin could be removed  and/or  excessive pressure on the glans could result in a visible deformity.An experienced provider will chose the appropriate size device and perform the procedure in 5-10 minutes. Healing time is approximately 10-14 days.

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Gomco Clamp

The gomco clamp is a 4-part metal device which is in many ways similar to the Plastibell. It was designed in the 1930’s and quickly became the most popular method among doctors at the time. Like the plastibell, its design allows for a safe circumcision by protecting the glans of the penis from injury. The amount of foreskin can be precisely determined and the line of excision is clean and regular. Also, aftercare is hassle-free (see after care instructions)

Like the Plastibell technique, the foreskin is retracted and all connections between the foreskin and glans are loosened and removed. The foreskin is then pulled back over the glans and the proper-sized bell placed on the glans. The stem of the bell, along with the correct amount of foreskin to be removed, is pulled through a hole in the base plate of the clamp. After evaluating the amount of shaft skin remaining and making adjustments, the top plate (rocker arm) of the clamp is placed adjusted so it sits in the notch of the the base plate and secured by tightening its nut. The remaining (exposed) foreskin can then be cut using the edge of the base plate as a guide. The nut is then loosened, the base and top plate removed and the remaining shaft skin is lifted off the bell. A petroleum gauze dressing is then applied to the wound. The entire procedure is completed in 5-10 minutes and healing time is 10-14 days.