The meatal/urethral width in healthy uncircumcised boys.

OBJECTIVE

Knowledge of normal meatal/urethral width in a growing boy is important to create a neourethra of adequate size to correct hypospadias. Thus far, normal size values have been based on the study of circumcised, awake boys. The aim of this study was to measure normal urethral width in healthy uncircumcised boys under general anesthesia to provide a tool to create a neourethra of adequate size.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Sixty healthy uncircumcised boys, aged 5 months through 16 years, were examined. Measurements were carried out under general anesthesia with Hegar dilators, size 1-8mm. Care was taken not to dilate or injure the urethra. The patients were divided into age groups similar to those in the literature and those recommended for hypospadias surgery. The data were analyzed in relation to age, body length and weight.

RESULTS

With minimum size 3.5mm and maximum 7.5mm, the mean width was significantly larger in the age groups 5 months-2 years and 2-4 years than in the literature (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study presents a practical tool for surgeons involved in hypospadias repair. Standardization of procedure may result in better assessment of results and education.