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Carbon dioxide laser circumcisions for children
A C S W How1, C C P Ong, A Jacobsen
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, KK Women's & Children's Hospital, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 229899.
Pediatric Surgery International
|May 2, 2003
Summary
Laser circumcision offers a cost-effective alternative to conventional methods, significantly reducing operating time and associated costs for pediatric patients. This method demonstrates favorable morbidity rates compared to traditional techniques.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Medical Technology Assessment
Background:
- The carbon dioxide laser was introduced for pediatric circumcision in 1989.
- Conventional circumcision methods have been the standard of care.
- Evaluating newer technologies for cost-effectiveness and safety is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review institutional experience with laser circumcision in children.
- To assess the cost-effectiveness of laser circumcision versus conventional methods.
- To evaluate the morbidity associated with laser circumcision.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective comparison of 30 conventional circumcisions (1985) and 30 laser circumcisions (1995) focusing on operating time.
- Cost analysis of laser circumcision, including machine maintenance, lifespan, disposables, and savings from reduced operating time.
- Collection and analysis of morbidity data from 2781 laser circumcisions (May 1997 - April 2000).
Main Results:
- Laser circumcision reduced operating time by an average of 5 minutes.
- Cost savings of S$31/- per laser circumcision were calculated due to reduced operating theatre time.
- Overall complication rate for laser circumcision was 1.15%, with bleeding (1.04%) and wound infection (0.11%) being the main issues.
Conclusions:
- Laser circumcision is a simple procedure with reduced operative time, proving to be cost-effective.
- Morbidity rates for laser circumcision are comparable or favorable to conventional methods reported by other institutions.