It is a congenital defect of the penis that often combines:
The severity of the anomaly varies:
The frequency is 1 in 300 births. If there is already a child with hypospadias in the family the frequency increases to 1 in 100. The causes are usually unknown. Modern studies implicate genetic hormonal and vascular factors, also factors related to the placenta or the environment.
The operation is performed depending on the severity between the 6th and 18th months of life.
The purpose of surgical intervention is:
The duration of surgery is 1 to 3 ½ hours depending on the severity. Mild forms of the problem can be treated with a day clinic admission. In the most severe forms, the duration of hospitalization can be longer. At the end of the operation, there will be a urinary catheter, a bandage dressing around the penis, and a system with two diapers to keep the dressing and catheter clean.
Hypospadias surgery is a very delicate and detailed procedure and needs specially qualified surgeons with similar long-term experience. Its outcome also depends on the patient's healing ability. Correction can be made in one procedure in most of the cases (60-85%). In severe forms (penoscrotal hypospadias), in two stages with at least 6 months interval between them.
In some cases, the healing is unsatisfactory and corrective operation is needed. Any additional procedure needs time for accomplishing the healing process, at least 6 months after the initial operation.
Possible complications
Hypospadias is a congenital defect that can be repaired with one or more surgical procedures. When a qualified surgeon treats this disorder, probably the aesthetic and functional result of this correction will be excellent. The patient’s age at surgery and the final aesthetic and functional result can play a role in potential psychological effects linked to the genital aspect. Rarely patients may need specialized psychological support postoperatively.