Trapped Penis and Urinary Retention in a Child with Severe Phimosis After Traditional Circumcision : A Case Report and Literature Review

Background: Phimosis is a common indication for circumcision. The finding of a trapped penis with significant penile abscess collection and urinary retention in a male infant following circumcision at home is indeed a rare occurrence.

Case History: A 18 months old male child was rushed to the Children’s emergency unit with acute urinary retention, grossly swollen and trapped penis. There was a preceeding history of poor urinary stream five weeks following circumcision at home. Examination revealed a child in acute urinary retention with a grossly swollen, soft, fluctuant and tender mass concealing his penis. Abdomino pelvic Ultrasound scan revealed a distended urinary bladder with evidence of back pressure effects on both kidneys. He had immediate urinary diversion via a suprapubic puncture and subsequently in a few hours, had a re-do circumcision.

Conclusion: Male circumcision remains the surgical procedure which must be performed by practionner with expertise at hospital, in order to minimise the tragic complications.

Keywords: trapped penis ; urinary retention ; phimosis ; traditional circumcision ; Togo.