Use of a eutectic mixture of local anaesthetics in the release of preputial adhesions: is it a worthwhile alternative?

OBJECTIVE

To see if a eutectic mixture of local anaesthetics (EMLA) could be used effectively for the release of preputial adhesions as a day case procedure.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 36 consecutive symptomatic children had their preputial adhesions separated under local anaesthetic with EMLA.

RESULTS

The procedure was successful in 27 children. Of these, 16 remained symptom free at 9 to 12 months follow up although five children had slight recurrence of adhesions. The other 11 children were listed for circumcision at 2 weeks following the procedure because of marked recurrence of adhesions.

CONCLUSION

EMLA cream is a good alternative to general anaesthetics in the separation of preputial adhesions. The technique is operator-dependent and better results were obtained when one person was using it regularly. Separation of adhesions is a worthwhile procedure in boys with symptomatic non-retractile foreskins.