Hypospadias

Question 1

What is hypospadias?

Answer 1

A congenital condition affecting males from birth, where the urethral meatus is abnormally displaced to the ventral side of the penis, towards the scrotum. This may be further towards the bottom of the glans, halfway down the shaft, or even at the base of the shaft.

Question 2

What is epispadias?

Answer 2

A condition 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.

Question 3

What is chordee?

Answer 3

An associated condition where the head of the penis bends downwards.

Question 4

When is hypospadias diagnosed?

Answer 4

Usually on examination of the newborn.

Question 5

What is the management for hypospadias?

Answer 5

• referral to paediatric specialist urologist for ongoing management
• can’t circumcise the infant until a urologist indicates this is okay, as the foreskin can be used in the corrective procedure
• mild cases may not need 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 6

What are the complications of hypospadias?

Answer 6

• difficulty directing urination
• cosmetic and psychological concerns
• sexual dysfunction