hypospadias
Pronunciation: hy-po-SPAY-dee-as
Congenital condition where the urethral opening is located on the underside of the penis rather than at the tip.
Full Definition
Hypospadias is a common congenital anomaly affecting approximately 1 in 200-300 male births, characterized by an abnormally positioned urethral meatus on the ventral aspect of the penis. The condition can range from mild (subcoronal or glandular) to severe (penoscrotal or perineal). Associated features may include ventral curvature of the penis (chordee) and an incomplete foreskin with a dorsal hood appearance. Surgical repair, typically performed between 6-18 months of age, aims to create a straight penis with a normally positioned meatus. Mild cases may not require surgical intervention if function is adequate.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from epispadias, where the urethral opening is on the upper side of the penis.
In Context
- "The newborn was diagnosed with mild glandular hypospadias on examination." — Pediatric urology referral
- "Surgical repair of hypospadias was scheduled for 12 months of age." — Pre-operative planning note