Male circumcision uptake, postoperative complications, and satisfaction associated with mid-level providers in rural Kenya

Abstract

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess postoperative complications and patient satisfaction associated with mid-level provision of male circumcision in rural Kenya.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted among children, adolescents, and adult men undergoing male circumcision from September 1, 2008 to December 4, 2008 at Marie Stopes International Kenya mobile outreach sites located in eight districts in the Nyanza and Western Provinces, Kenya. Male circumcision procedures were performed by registered nurses, surgical technicians, or nurse aides. Postoperative follow-up visits took place on the day of the procedure and at postoperative days 3, 7, and 30, with additional visits as necessary. Data on adverse events, healing conditions, satisfaction level, and resumption of activities were assessed at each follow-up visit.

Results

A total of 285 individuals were screened, and 240 underwent male circumcision procedures. All procedures were performed using the guided forceps technique by mid-level providers. At the first follow-up visit (postoperative day 3), 5.8% (n = 14) individuals did not return for post-surgical assessment. Retention rates at the second (day 7) and third (day 30) follow-up visits were 91.3% (n = 219) and 84.6% (n = 203), respectively. The prevalence of complications (moderate and severe adverse events) was 1.3% (3/240). At the first and second follow-up visits, 91.7% of patients (n = 220) were capable of resuming their daily activities, and 100% by day 30. The majority of patients (>99%) were satisfied with the procedure, counseling, and information received.

Conclusion

Male circumcisions can be delivered safely and successfully by mid-level providers in rural settings with high client satisfaction, thereby increasing access to human immunodeficiency virus prevention services in Kenya.

Keywords:

• male circumcision
• human immunodeficiency virus
• reproductive health
• mid-level providers
• Kenya

Acknowledgments

The authors extend their appreciation to Heidi Quinn and Tania Boler at Marie Stopes International for their critical review of the manuscript. We would also like to thank all the clinicians and field staff who dedicated a tremendous amount of time and commitment to the study.

Disclosure

The authors work for MSI, an organization that provides male circumcision services in Kenya and also provided funding for this study.