Hypospadias Treatment in Delhi & Gurgaon
Understanding Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management of Hypospadias
Illustration showing Hypospadias
What is Hypospadias?
Hypospadias is a condition where the urethra and foreskin don't develop properly in a baby's penis. It's a congenital condition present at birth that can range from mild to severe.
Early in a fetus's development, the urethra starts as an open channel. The channel closes to form a complete tube as a fetus develops before birth. The meatus is the opening at the end of the urethra. It's usually in the head of or at the tip of the penis. It's where semen and pee exit the body.
In a baby with hypospadias, the urethral tube doesn't close all the way, causing the meatus to form below the tip of the penis. It may exist anywhere along the shaft of the penis, in the scrotum or even lower, near the butthole (anus). Without treatment, problems can develop later in life, including difficulty peeing and difficulties having sexual intercourse.
Is hypospadias a serious problem? Hypospadias can range from very mild to severe. A surgeon may not need to repair mild cases. But in most cases, hypospadias requires surgery.
Types of Hypospadias
Healthcare providers categorize the type of hypospadias by where the urethra opens:
Glanular (Balanic)
When the meatus or urethral opening is in the head of the penis, but not all the way at the tip. It's the mildest type of hypospadias.
Coronal
The most common form of hypospadias. It's when the meatus is just below the head of the penis or where the head of the penis meets the shaft.
Midshaft
Occurs halfway down the penis shaft.
Penoscrotal
Occurs where the penis and scrotum meet.
Scrotal/Perineal
The most severe forms of hypospadias. The urethra opens on or below the scrotum.
Symptoms and Causes
What are the symptoms of hypospadias?
The main symptom of hypospadias is that the meatus isn't at the tip of the penis.
Other hypospadias symptoms may include:
- Problems peeing - Pee doesn't spray in a straight stream
- Underdeveloped foreskin - Only covers part of the penis
- Chordee (congenital curved penis) - The penis curves downward
- Undescended testicles - One or both testicles don't descend
Important Note:
Don't circumcise your child if they have an underdeveloped foreskin. A healthcare provider may use a small piece of the underdeveloped foreskin during surgical treatment.
Complications of Hypospadias Repair
All types of surgery come with some risks, including anesthesia risks, infection, bleeding, and scarring.
Specific hypospadias repair risks include:
Urethrocutaneous fistula
A hole that forms between the urethra and the outer skin of the penis. Causes pee to exit at wrong location.
Urethral stricture
Scarring causes urethra to narrow. Makes peeing difficult and creates pressure on bladder, kidneys.
Urethral diverticulum
Urethra widens and stretches out near repair area. Pee gathers causing dribbling and UTIs.
Recurrent curvature
Sometimes after repair, the penis may curve again over time.
Prevention
Can hypospadias be prevented?
If you're pregnant, you can reduce your baby's risk of having hypospadias by:
Important Information:
Hypospadias is usually diagnosed at birth during the newborn examination. Early diagnosis and consultation with a pediatric urologist are important for determining the best treatment plan. Most cases can be successfully treated with surgery, typically performed between 6-18 months of age.
Key Takeaways
About Hypospadias
- • Congenital condition present at birth
- • Urethral opening not at penis tip
- • Ranges from mild to severe forms
- • Most common male birth defect
Treatment & Management
- • Usually requires surgical repair
- • Best treated between 6-18 months
- • Early consultation with specialist
- • Don't circumcise if suspected
If you suspect your child has hypospadias, consult with a pediatric urologist for proper diagnosis and treatment planning. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.