Hypospadias

Question 1

What is hypospadias?

Answer 1

Congenital abnormality of the penis which occurs in 3 in 1000 male infants.

=> genetic link with further male children having a risk of 5-15%

=> identified on newborn baby check; if missed parents may notice an abnormal urine stream

Question 2

What are the characteristics of hypospadias?

Answer 2

1. A ventral urethral meatus
   => difficulty urinating while standing
2. A hooded prepuce
3. Chordee (ventral curvature of penis) in severe forms
4. Urethral meatus may open more proximally in severe forms
   => 75% located distally

Question 3

Hypospadias commonly occurs as an isolated disorder.

But assoc. disorders include:
=> cryptorchidism (present in 10%)
=> inguinal hernia

Answer 3

INFO CARD

Question 4

How is hypospadias managed?

Answer 4

1. Refer to specialist services
2. Corrective surgery performed at 12months of age
3. Essential that child is not circumcised prior to surgery as foreskin may be used for corrective procedure
4. Boys with distal disease, no treatment may be needed