Hypospadias - Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Univ. Lect. Dr. Ursula Tonnhofer

Medical fields:
Pediatric surgery,

F.E.A.P.U (Fellow of the European Academy of Paediatric Urology)

What is hypospadias?

Hypospadias is one of the most common malformations of the external male genital organs. The causes are unclear, genetic factors as well as environmental factors seem to play a role in the development.

While the minor forms of hypospadias often only represent a cosmetic problem, major hypospadias cases are complex and difficult to deal with. With major hypospadias, the opening of the urethra is not located at the tip of the penis, the urethra is shorter, the penis is usually curved and the urethra opening is on the underside of the penis.

When is surgery indicated?

The pediatric specialist decides whether an operation is indicated. The operation should be carried out around the first birthday until the child is “clean”, unless it is a minor case. Today there are standardized surgical methods that guarantee safety, a good aesthetic result and the best functionality. Nevertheless, surgical therapy is complex

What are the consequences if treatment for severe hypospadias is not treated?

Because of the curvature of the penis, the ability to perform sexual intercourse can be restricted, and the deflection of the urine stream can also prevent the person concerned from urinating while standing. The different appearance of the penis can also put stress on the patient.

How is the procedure carried out?

The procedure can be performed under sedoanalgesia with caudal block, a form of anesthesia that enables the child to recover quickly after surgery. The aim of the operation is to reconstruct a functionally healthy and cosmetically appealing penis - that is, an erect penis with a urethral opening in the area of ​​the glans tip. This shall enable the child to develop well psychosexually. This can usually be achieved with one operation; only in very severe cases of hypospadias it may be necessary to carry out two operations.

How long is the stay in the hospital and what happens after the operation?

The stay in the clinic lasts about 2 days. Antibiotic therapy may be indicated after the operation, but this is not always the case. After one week, the bandage removal and catheter removal take place on an outpatient basis. The operation is complex and must be carried out by experienced specialists in pediatric urology. The Döbling Private Clinic offers the necessary medical infrastructure and a pleasant atmosphere for the child and the parents.