Hypospadias: initial assessment, complex cases and repeat surgery
Hypospadias is a congenital condition in which the urethral opening is not in its usual position at the tip of the penis. Complexity depends on several factors, including curvature, available tissues, function and surgical history.
Children, adolescents and adults
Assessment may take place after diagnosis in childhood or later, when questions arise about urination, curvature, function or the outcome of previous operations. Privacy, comfort and participation in decisions should be appropriate to age.
When surgery has already taken place
Urine coming out through another opening, difficulty urinating, persistent curvature or scar changes warrant investigation. Previous surgery does not automatically mean that another operation is necessary.
Treatment and follow-up
When indicated, reconstruction aims to improve function and anatomy. Some cases may require more than one stage. Urinary fistula, narrowing, breakdown of the reconstruction, residual curvature and the need for revision are possible risks. In children with suspected hypospadias, circumcision should first be discussed with the specialist, as the foreskin may be useful for reconstruction.
Safety, limitations and decision-making
All surgery involves risks, and individual results cannot be guaranteed. The indication depends on diagnosis, anatomy, health conditions, previous treatment, goals and the ability to complete the necessary follow-up. The consultation should compare expected benefits, risks, alternatives and the possibility of not having surgery at that time.
The information on this website is educational and does not replace individual medical assessment. In an emergency, seek immediate medical care.