An international team of medical experts has conducted a specialized training session at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital aimed at improving male circumcision practices and reducing complications, particularly among newborns.
The training was facilitated by Mr. Abdulsalam Mohammed Daaru, Acting Head of Nursing and Midwifery Audit, following his participation in similar training programs in the United States of America. The team, led by Dr. David R. Tomlinson, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Family Medicine, in collaboration with Friends of Adaklu from the Volta Region, brought together 66 doctors, nurses, and midwives. Notable participants included Dr. Wilson Agbavor, Medical Director of Fountain Medical Service; Mr. George Laing, a renowned plastic surgeon; and Chief Nursing Officers Ernestina Asamoah and Mavis Torgbor of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
The program sought to promote safer, standardized circumcision procedures in line with World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations, while also reducing healthcare costs and medical waste. Organizers noted that the initiative was necessary due to reported complications arising from unsafe circumcision practices in several countries, including severe cases of penile injury.
Participants were introduced to a simplified circumcision technique using the AccuCirc device, invented by Dr. David Tomlinson of the Special Circ Center. Dr. Tomlinson originally trained as a mechanical engineer in the U.S. Navy before qualifying as a physician.
The AccuCirc device has proven to be minimally invasive, highly accurate, and safer, with consistent outcomes, reduced costs, and a lower risk of bleeding. It is also widely preferred by healthcare providers.
The training emphasized education rather than enforcement, encouraging health workers to support parents and caregivers in making informed decisions, particularly in communities where circumcision is traditionally delayed until later childhood. Discussions also focused on integrating circumcision education into midwifery and healthcare training curricula, as well as plans to introduce certification and standardization for providers.
Participants expressed appreciation for the hands-on nature of the training and the practical insights gained from the facilitators. Many noted that the use of the AccuCirc device would significantly enhance their confidence and competence in performing safer circumcision procedures, especially for newborns. They also welcomed the opportunity to engage with international experts and share experiences that would improve service delivery across their respective facilities.
Mrs. Aimee Akotey, Director of Nursing and Midwifery Services, commended the organizers, stating that the initiative would significantly improve male circumcision outcomes at the Hospital.
