AboutArthur Goldstein, M.D. Expertise Any problems or questions related to the field of urology; ie urinary stone disease, urinary cancers (kidney, bladder, prostate, testis, etc.), urinary infections, impotency, etc.
Experience I am retired from the active practice of urology. My 34 years was totally in the clinical field and involved the entire gamut of genitourinary problems, with special interest in male impotence and endourology.
Organizations American Medical Association, American Urological Association, American College of Surgeons
Question Hi there, I was hoping you would be able to help me out on an issue involving my circumcision in May 2006 (8 months ago).
I am a 19 year old male from Canada, and am taking no medications. I underwent circumcision 8 months ago. The surgery healed quite quickly, but 3 of the stitches (all in a row) have not dissolved yet. The skin has healed around the stitches but for some reason they will not heal. It gives the appearance of little "holes" in the skin where each stich is attached and is very unappealing.
There is a slight pain when i apply pressure to the row of three stitches. I understand that stitches take a while to dissolve, but it's been 8 months with no change! Should I worry about this issue? I appreciate any help I can get because it will be at least 3 months before I can see my urologist to ask him.
Thank you!
Answer Josh, if residual sutures are present, they should be removed ASAP as they cause a foreign body type of chronic inflammation. You should not wait 3 months to have this done! I am not real familiar with the health care system in Canada but I suspect if you call your urologist and explain the situation, he will want to bring you in promptly to address the problem. If not, your family doctor probably can to this for you, although some may be uncomfortable with the removal. Often at this point in time the suture knot is no longer present. Therefore, if you can see the sutures easily, grasping each with a tweezers (wiped first with alcohol or betadine) you might be able to do it yourself. Good luck.
