[Repair of urethral fistula resulting from correction of hypospadias: experience with 56 cases].

OBJECTIVE

To improve the success rate of one-stage urethral fistula repair by modifying the surgical procedures, suture material and application of urethral stent.

METHODS

The clinical data of 56 cases of urethral fistula following correction of hypospadias were analyzed. The case group consisted of 38 cases with large fistula (over 3 mm in diameter) and 18 cases of small fistula (less than 3 mm). For the former cases, double skin flaps or pedicled skin flap from the scrotum were adopted for the repair; in the latter cases, transverse Y- or V-shaped skin flaps were used. Porous silica gel cannula was adopted for the stents.

RESULT: A success rate of one-stage repair as high as 87.50% was achieved in these cases, with a rate for large fistula of 86.84%.

CONCLUSION

Rich blood supply of the flaps, application of absorbable suture and urethral stent can improve the success rate of fistula repair.