Hypospadias

This is a condition affecting boys where the urinary opening is not at the tip of the penis. Boys with hypospadias cannot pass urine, or ejaculate when older, in a straight line. They have difficulty therefore urinating into a toilet whilst standing, and if the hypospadias is not corrected, their fertility may be compromised. There may also be an abnormal bend, and a deficiency of foreskin on the undersurface of the penis.

Treatment

An operation is necessary to correct hypospadias, and this may be performed at anytime after 6 months of age. Ideally the penis will be normal prior to the boy starting nursery school.

A short stay in hospital is required, and a stent or catheter is usually necessary. The dressing and stent will be removed 5-7 days after the operation, either in the clinic, or back on the ward.

Follow up

Regular follow up will be arranged over the following 12 months.

Risks or complications

After the operation, wound infection which responds to antibiotics, and fistula formation are possible complications. A fistula has occurred if there is leakage of urine from the shaft of the penis rather from just the tip of the penis. A fistula may be repaired successfully, 4-6 months after the initial operation. Other complications include narrowing of the penile urethra/urinary channel.