Hypospadias

Question 1

What is hypopadias?

Answer 1

Hypospadias is a condition affecting males, where the urethral meatus (the opening of the urethra) is abnormally displaced to the ventral side (underside) of the penis, towards the scrotum. This might be further towards the bottom of the glans (in 90% of cases), halfway down the shaft or even at the base of the shaft.

Question 2

What is epispadias?

Answer 2

Epispadias is where the meatus is displaced to the dorsal side (top side) of the penis. Usually, the foreskin is abnormally formed to match the position of the meatus. There can also be an associated condition called chordee, where the head of the penis bends downwards.

Question 3

How is hypospadias diagnosed?

Answer 3

Hypospadias is a congenital condition affecting babies from birth and is usually diagnosed on the examination of the newborn.

Question 4

Management of hypospadias?

Answer 4

Hypospadias requires referral to a paediatric specialist urologist for ongoing management. It is important to warn parents not to circumcise the infant until a urologist indicates this is ok.

Mild cases may not require any treatment
Surgery is usually performed after 3 – 4 months of age
Surgery aims to correct the position of the meatus and straighten the penis

Question 5

Complications of hypospadias?

Answer 5

Difficulty directing urination
Cosmetic and psychological concerns
Sexual dysfunction