Mogen clamp

Mogen Clamp

File:Mogen Clamp.jpg

A Mogen Clamp

The Mogen Clamp is a surgical instrument used in the medical procedure of circumcision. It was originally designed by Jewish Mohels for the performance of the Jewish ritual of Brit milah. The Mogen clamp is one of the three most commonly used clamps in circumcision, the others being the Gomco clamp and the Plastibell.

History

The Mogen clamp was invented by Rabbi Harry Bronstein in the 1950s. Bronstein was a mohel in Brooklyn, New York, who sought to create a safer and more efficient method of performing circumcisions. The clamp is named after the Hebrew word "mogen" which means "shield", referring to the protective function of the device.

Design and Use

The Mogen clamp is a simple, two-part device. It consists of a flat, metal plate with a slot in it, and a hinged, metal clamp. The foreskin is pulled over the plate, and the clamp is closed over it, protecting the glans and providing a straight edge for the surgical cut.

The Mogen clamp is known for its speed and simplicity of use. It allows for a quick procedure, often completed in less than a minute. This is in contrast to other methods such as the Gomco clamp or the Plastibell, which require more time and multiple steps.

Controversy

Despite its widespread use, the Mogen clamp has been the subject of controversy. There have been reported cases of injury to the penis, including partial amputation, due to improper use of the clamp. Critics argue that the design of the clamp, which does not allow for direct visualisation of the glans during the procedure, increases the risk of injury.

See Also

• Circumcision
• Gomco clamp
• Plastibell
• Brit milah