Hypospadias

Hypospadias occurs when the opening of the urethra (the tube that transports the urine from the bladder to the outside) in the penis is not at the very tip but somewhere along the underside. It occurs in 1 of 250-300 males. If the hole is on the underside of the penis, the urine stream is difficult to control. Hypospadias could also cause fertility problems later in life because the hole needs to be at the tip of the penis to deposit sperm during sex. Also, some boys with hypospadias have a bent penis (chordee or penile curvature) when they have an erection (stiff, hard penis). Penile curvature makes intercourse awkward and difficult (or even impossible). In most cases, hypospadias is repaired between 6 and 18 months of age. Surgery is most preferred between this age range because your son’s heart and lungs have matured, and his penis is a good size for surgery. The goals of the operation are to place the hole at the tip of the penis and to correct any bend, if it exists. Circumcision can be done at the time of the operation as well. Our surgeon will talk with you before the operation about the plan for your son. A urethral catheter may be used for 7 to 14 days according to the complexity of the operation. Your beliefs and wishes are also important to us. Our pediatric urologists will discuss all options with you so you can make the best decision for your child.