Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: Congenital penile hypoplasia, which hospital to treat, what age is better for the child to be treatedDoctor's answer:
Hypospadias is a congenital defect in which the urethral opening is in an abnormal position. The urethral meatus can be located along the line connecting the normal urethral opening to the perineum, and most patients have a penile curvature towards the abdomen. Hypospadias is a common urological malformation in children and generally requires surgical treatment. Congenital hypospadias is considered a minor surgery. Recommendation: In this case, surgical treatment can be performed at the pediatric surgery department of a local Level 3 Grade A hospital. The optimal age for hypospadias surgery is between 6 and 12 months.In the first 6 months, the penis grows rapidly, but after 6 months, penile development stabilizes. Additionally, children tolerate anesthesia better after 6 months. Moreover, at this age, children have weak memory, so the psychological impact of surgery is minimal. If the penile appearance is normal, it will not significantly affect future sexual behavior. At this age, postoperative pain and discomfort from the catheter are mild, and the child's limited mobility makes postoperative care simpler.
We have also found that the incidence of complications in hypospadias repair surgery in older children is significantly higher than in younger children.