What is hypospadias?

Commonly known as 'prophet's circumcision' among the public, it refers to a condition in male children where the urethral opening is located on the underside of the penis instead of the tip.

What is the cause of hypospadias?

The exact cause is unknown. It is thought to be related to genetic abnormalities in the genes responsible for the development of the lower urinary tract and excessive consumption of estrogen-rich foods during pregnancy.

Why should hypospadias be treated?

The urethral opening, which is not in its normal position, may be narrow in individuals with this condition. Due to the narrowing, urine flow can weaken, potentially disrupting bladder function in the future.

As the child reaches puberty, the abnormal appearance of the penis may lead to psychological issues.

Children with hypospadias may also have penile curvature, which can cause problems during sexual intercourse later in life.

If the urethral opening is located too low, it may result in infertility due to the inability to deposit sperm into the vagina.

How is hypospadias treated?

Hypospadias is treated through surgical intervention. The surgery is typically performed during infancy, usually between 6 and 18 months of age, to correct the position of the urethral opening and restore normal function and appearance of the penis. The surgical approach depends on the severity of the condition. Here’s an overview of the treatment:

Mild Cases: For mild forms, the surgical procedure might involve moving the urethral opening to a more normal position without extensive reconstruction.
Moderate to Severe Cases: For more severe cases, where the urethra is not only misplaced but also underdeveloped or where the penis is curved (chordee), more complex surgery is required. This may involve elongating the urethra, straightening the penis, and reconstructing the urethral opening.
Timing: The surgery is often performed in one or more stages, with the first stage being done early in life and additional corrections performed later if necessary. The aim is to improve urinary function, prevent infections, and enhance cosmetic appearance.

Post-operative care involves monitoring for complications such as infection or issues with urine flow, and sometimes further surgical revisions may be needed. Most children recover well after surgery and lead a normal life.