Glans size is an independent risk factor for urethroplasty complications after hypospadias repair

Dr. Bush and Dr. Snodgrass demonstrate that a small glans (head of the penis) that measures <14mm across is a risk factor for complications after hypospadias repair. In 490 boys who underwent hypospadias repair, those with a small glans had a 3.5-fold risk of complications such as fistula and glans dehiscence compared to boys whose glans penis measured 14mm or greater. Patients with a midshaft or proximal hypospadias, and those who have failed a prior hypospadias repair, also have an increased risk for complications. Boys with these risk factors may benefit from care by a hypospadias specialist. Since reviewing this data, Dr. Snodgrass and Dr. Bush were able to make a technical modification to the surgery which now has decreased the risk of glans dehiscence after hypospadias repair – even in boys with glans size < 14 mm. Click here to read more.