Circumcision Clamp: Types (Gomco, Mogen, Plastibell) and Procedure

Definition

A circumcision clamp is a surgical instrument that crushes and secures the foreskin, allowing safe, bloodless excision.

Common Types

• Gomco clamp: Bell-shaped base + plate + arm; crushes foreskin over bell; widely used in US hospitals.
• Mogen clamp: Flat, shield-like; no bell; faster, less tissue trauma; popular for ritual circumcision.
• Plastibell: Plastic ring + suture; foreskin tied over ring, necroses and sloughs in 5–7 days; no clamp crushing.

Procedure Overview (Gomco)

1. Adhesions lysed; foreskin retracted.
2. Bell placed over glans; foreskin pulled over bell.
3. Plate positioned; arm tightened → crush line.
4. Foreskin excised distal to crush line.
5. Clamp left 5 min for hemostasis; removed; dressing applied.

Safety

Proper sizing, technique, and hemostasis are critical. Complications: bleeding, infection, meatal stenosis, skin bridges, excessive/insufficient skin removal.