Hypospadias is a relatively common birth defect that occurs in approximately one out of every 350 male births. It is characterized by an abnormal positioning of the meatus, the opening from which urine passes. The degree of hypospadias depends on the location of the penis opening. The defect may occur anywhere along the underside of the penis down to the scrotum. Chordee - a downward curve of the penis, especially when erect - is usually, but not always, associated with hypospadias. Boys with chordee often must sit to void. The deformity is usually mild, but severe curvature from chordee can make intercourse impossible. Males with hypospadias usually have normal testes and can father children.
The cause of hypospadias is not known. The condition results from abnormal development of the urethra in the embryo and not from anything the parents did or did not do during pregnancy. Hypospadias will occasionally occur in more than one male in a family.
Hypospadias can be corrected surgically. Depending on the severity, the correction can be completed in one or more operations. The best age at which to have corrective surgery depends on the size of the penis and degree of the defect. Repair is usually advised at an early age, unless the patient is not referred until he is older. Health professionals generally recommend repairing genital defects early, so patients can avoid embarrassment that can be associated with the condition.
Corrective surgery usually results in a penis that looks normal and functions normally. Surgery can straighten the shaft, position the meatus at the tip of the penis, and remove the hooded foreskin. Patients are able to stand to void, and sexual activity and fertility are satisfactory. The child’s hospital stay may range from a few hours in a day surgery unit to a few days or a week on an inpatient unit.
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