Circumcision accidents in Yaoundé, Cameroon: a report on five cases

Within a period of two months, (from July to August 2007), five accidents resulting from circumcisions were recorded in the pediatric surgical unit of Gynaeco-Obstetric and Paediatric Hospital Yaoundé. Average age was 7.75 years within a range of 4-10 years. Anatomic/clinical pathologies recorded were: (a) one case of haemorrhage; one case of balanitis; (b) one case of amputation of the glans penis and (d) two cases of urethral fistula. This study brings out the ritualistic nature of circumcision rather than its therapeutic approach. Knowing fully the impact of accidents arising from the act of circumcision, there is no doubt that circumcision is entirely a surgical procedure requiring primarily the services of a paediatric surgeon. Its practice by other health care personnel like wise tradi-practioners should be under strict control.