Circumcision: Plastibell Device

Topic Overview

The Plastibell is a plastic device slipped between the penis and the foreskin to circumcise a male. A cut in the foreskin usually is required before the device can be placed. Sterile string is tied around the device and over the foreskin to cut off the blood supply. Foreskin tissue is trimmed off and the end of the bell is removed, leaving the ring tied in place.

Tissue remaining under the ring dies and is sloughed off. The ring should fall off by itself about 10 to 12 days after the circumcision.

Advantages

• Many doctors are familiar and comfortable with its use.
• Different-sized bells allow a custom fit for each infant.
• The device produces good cosmetic results.

Disadvantages

• The device is more likely than the Mogen clamp to cause excessive bleeding.
• Infection is more likely after this procedure than after the other procedures for circumcision.
• There is a delay in the removal of foreskin tissue.