[Errors and risks in ambulatory operations: circumcision].

As one of the most frequently performed operations circumcisions can entail not only typical but also rare complications with possibly fatal consequences. The following areas are of particular importance: legal aspects of the operation, indication for an operation, pre-operative information, post-operative surveillance and after-care. The amount of circumcisions carried out in different European countries vary widely. This shows a difference in indication assessment, which may suppose that a number of operations are not necessary.