Hypospadias is one of the most prevalent congenital urethral abnormality observed in males. This condition, affecting the lower urinary tract, specifically the bladder and urethra,often needs medical or surgical intervention, including specialized hypospadias repair surgery. The incidence rate varies across regions, with Asian countries reporting approximately 1 in 500 to 1 in 1,000 males affected, while European countries show a slightly higher prevalence, estimated at around 1 in 200 to 1 in 500 males. Understanding these regional variations is essential for effective treatment and management strategies.
Severe cases demanding urgent surgical intervention, such as hypospadias repair surgery, are relatively uncommon. The likelihood of occurrence significantly increases if the child’s father or sibling has been affected by the condition. Various factors contribute to the rising incidence of hypospadias, including exposure to pesticides, maternal smoking during pregnancy, and alcohol consumption, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures and early diagnosis.
What are the types of hypospadias?
Hypospadias can be classified into several types and degrees based on the distance of the urethral orifice from its natural position. types and degrees include:
- .Glanular hypospadias: it is a mild form of hypospadias where the urethral orifice is located on the head of the penis
- Coronal hypospadias: it is characterized by the urethral orifice located directly beneath the headof the penis or at the junction where the head meets the shaft, and it is the most common type of hypospadias.
- .Midshaft hypospadias: it is the condition where the urethral orifice is positioned midway along the shaft of the penis.
- .Penoscrotal hypospadias: it is the condition where the urethral orifice is located at the junction where the penis meets the scrotum.
- Perineoscrotal hypospadias: it is considered to be the most severe type of hypospadias, where the urethral orifice is located on or beneath the scrotum.
A more simplified approach that categorizes hypospadias types based on the distance of the urethral orifice from its natural anatomical position. Highlighting the severity level of each case, to emphasize:
- First-degree hypospadias: it represents the mildest form of the condition, where the urethral orifice is situated below the head of the penis, only .slightly displaced. This type of hypospadias is the most common, representing approximately 70% of all cases
- .Second-degree hypospadias: it is where the urinary orifice is positioned midway along the underside of the penile shaft.
- Third-degree hypospadias: it is the most severe type, characterized by the urethral orifice being located at the junction where the penis meets the scrotum, or in some cases, within the scrotum itself.
What are the causes of hypospadias?
The exact causes of hypospadias in most newborns remain unknown. However, current research and hypotheses point to several contributing factors, including:
- Genetics: family history of hypospadias significantly increases the risk of occurrence in newborns, with fathers or siblings being previously .affected by hypospadias
- Certain substances: during pregnancy, exposure to these substances can increase the risk of hypospadias occurring in newborns. These substances may exist in the mother’s environment, be consumed through her daily diet, or be introduced through medications taken during .pregnancy
- Age and weight: It was found that mothers aged 35 or older and those who are classified as obese have a higher risk of giving birth to children .affected by this condition
- Fertility medications: women who use these medical methods to enhance fertility may face a higher chance of giving birth to affected children
- Hormonal therapy: women who undergo specific hormone treatments shortly before or during pregnancy may face a higher risk of giving birth to .children affected by hypospadias
Hypospadias is often linked to abnormalities such as undescended testicles, inguinal hernias, and renal anomalies. These abnormalities are observed in 10-15% of cases. So, patients diagnosed with hypospadias are commonly advised to undergo renal imaging, such as X-rays, to ensure the absence of these abnormalities. Additionally, if one or both testicles are not palpable in a child with hypospadias, it may raise concerns about a possible disorder of sexual development, demanding further medical evaluation and intervention.
What are the symptoms of hypospadias?
Hypospadias can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications in affected children, often becoming evident at birth or shortly afterward. The severity of these issues primarily depends on the position of the urethral orifice, a hallmark feature of the condition. Additional significant symptoms associated with hypospadias include:
- Incompleted appearance of the prepuce of the penis skin, which appears to be opened or perforated from the bottom
- curvature of the penis, especially when erected
- Difficulty in urination. The stream may flow downward or backward, depending on the severity of the condition, instead of exiting straight from the tip of the urethra. This irregular flow often leads to challenges with normal urination, requiring the affected individual to adopt a seated position for proper urination
- After puberty, untreated hypospadias can lead to significant challenges affecting the overall function of the penis. These include difficulties with sexual intercourse, reduced fertility, and, in severe cases, it can lead to infertility
- Social and psychological effects on individuals, leading to feelings of embarrassment and a tendency to avoid situations that involve body exposure. This results in a significant loss of self-confidence, adversely affecting overall quality of life and personal relationships
How is hypospadias repair surgery performed?
Hypospadias repair surgery is an uncomplicated and highly successful procedure designed to correct the congenital abnormality of the urethral orifice, which is positioned outside its natural location. Hypospadias repair is tailored by the doctor for each child, depending on the severity of the condition and individual case details. Typically, hypospadias repair follows a set of standardized, essential steps to ensure successful results. The recovery period for hypospadias repair typically ranges from two to several weeks, influenced by factors such as the severity of the condition, the complexity of the procedure, and the child’s age and overall health. Following post-operative care instructions, such as keeping the wound clean and dry and administering prescribed medications, can significantly facilitate the healing process.
Success of hypospadias repair surgery depends on various aspects, including the severity of the condition, the child’s health, and the surgeon’s expertise, yet the success rate remains impressively high, exceeding 95%. Indicators of a successful hypospadias repair are evident when the child’s previous symptoms are resolved, recovery progresses smoothly without complications, and normal functionality is restored, confirming the surgery’s effectiveness and success.
What is the cost of hypospadias repair surgery in Türkiye and why is it an excellent destination?
The average cost of hypospadias repair surgery ranges between $4,050 and $5,500. This price range is significantly impacted by various critical :factors, including
- Type and severity of the condition
- Therapeutic methods used
- Medical facility level and reputation
- Doctor’s expertise and specialization
- Patient’s overall health
- Treatment duration and aftercare needs
Turkey stands out as an ideal destination for urology surgeries, thanks to its advanced medical facilities equipped with the latest equipment. Turkish surgeons are renowned for their extensive experience and expertise, ensuring the best treatment outcomes, even for complex cases. Hospitals in Turkey offer comprehensive patient care and close monitoring. Turkey’s unique ability to combine high-quality medical services with affordable costs compared to many other countries makes it a reliable and effective choice for those seeking exceptional urology treatment and surgery.
Hypospadias repair surgery is a vital medical procedure that goes far beyond cosmetic purposes. It plays a transformative role in improving a child’s quality of life by resolving functional and physical or even psychological challenges. Hypospadias repair surgery restores normal function, particularly in urination, and removes barriers that could obstruct daily activities.
Additionally, the procedure has significant psychological benefits, preventing feelings of shame, boosting self-confidence, and promoting healthy social interactions. Hypospadias repair surgery supports proper physical and emotional development, allowing children to grow confidently and have a fulfilling life free from obstacles.
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