Our Summary

This research paper looked at how common hypospadias, a birth defect in boys where the opening of the urethra is not located at the tip of the penis, is around the world. The authors examined studies from 1910 to 2013 and found that the frequency of this condition varies greatly depending on geographical location, region, and ethnicity. For example, it was found to be more common in Europe and North America than in other parts of the world. While some studies show that the occurrence of hypospadias is increasing, there is contradictory data, making it hard to definitively determine if this is the case. The authors suggest that to get a better understanding of how common hypospadias really is and whether it’s becoming more or less common, there needs to be cooperation between national and international health registries.

FAQs

  1. What is hypospadias and how common is it around the world?
  2. Are there geographical and ethnic variations in the occurrence of hypospadias?
  3. Has the frequency of hypospadias been increasing over the years?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about hypospadias repair is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include keeping the surgical site clean and dry, avoiding strenuous activities that could disrupt healing, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns. By following these instructions, patients can help ensure a successful recovery and optimal outcome from the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended hypospadias repair are infants or young boys who are diagnosed with the condition. Hypospadias repair is usually recommended to correct the abnormality and improve the function and appearance of the penis. The decision to recommend surgery is based on various factors such as the severity of the hypospadias, the child’s age, and the presence of any associated complications. In some cases, surgery may be recommended at a later age if the hypospadias is mild and does not cause significant issues. It is important for parents to consult with a pediatric urologist or a specialist in hypospadias to determine the best course of treatment for their child.

Timeline

Before hypospadias repair:

  • Patient is born with hypospadias, a birth defect where the opening of the urethra is not at the tip of the penis
  • Parents may notice the abnormal positioning of the urethral opening during diaper changes or bath time
  • Patient may experience difficulty with urination and may have a curved or downward pointing penis
  • Patient may undergo diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition

After hypospadias repair:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to correct the positioning of the urethral opening
  • Recovery period involves pain management, wound care, and monitoring for complications
  • Patient may need to wear a catheter for a period of time after surgery
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing, assess urinary function, and address any concerns or complications
  • Patient may require additional surgeries or treatments in the future to address any persistent issues or complications from the initial repair

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the different options for hypospadias repair surgery and which one do you recommend for my specific case?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hypospadias repair surgery?
  3. What is the success rate of hypospadias repair surgery and what can I expect in terms of outcomes?
  4. How long is the recovery process after hypospadias repair surgery and what kind of follow-up care will be needed?
  5. Will my child be able to have normal urinary and sexual function after hypospadias repair surgery?
  6. Are there any long-term effects or implications of having hypospadias that I should be aware of?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions that I should take after hypospadias repair surgery?
  8. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies available for hypospadias that I should consider?
  9. Can you provide me with more information or resources about hypospadias and its treatment options?
  10. Are there any support groups or organizations that specialize in helping patients with hypospadias and their families?

Reference

Authors: Springer A, van den Heijkant M, Baumann S. Journal: J Pediatr Urol. 2016 Jun;12(3):152.e1-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2015.12.002. Epub 2015 Dec 31. PMID: 26810252