[Hypospadias--not only a misplaced urinary meatus].

BACKGROUND

Hypospadias is a congenital malformation with a complex and unclear etiology; both hormonal disturbances and genetic factors may contribute. It is discussed internationally whether the incidence of the malformation has increased during the last decades. There are many operation methods for treatment of hypospadias.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Incidence, possible etiologic factors and the clinical presentation of hypospadias is discussed, based on personal experience and review of literature retrieved from PubMed. Principles of treatment are outlined.

RESULTS AND INTERPRETATION: The diagnosis is usually made during a routine examination after birth. The less severe cases of hypospadias can be overlooked. Most of them ( 2 / 3 ) are of a distal type and lack foreskin coverage of the ventral side of the penis head and there is often a ventral curvature of the penis. Many currently recommend the operation to be taken from 6 to 18 months of age, but it may be technically more challenging to operate such young boys than to postpone it to when they are older. The operational method is adapted to the type of hypospadias and the aim is to achieve a satisfactory cosmetic and functional result and a low incidence of postoperative complications.