Best Doctor List Near You for Hypospadias in Alberta

Hypospadias is a congenital condition in males where the opening of the urethra is located on the underside of the penis rather than at the tip. This malformation can vary in severity, with the urethral opening positioned anywhere from just below the tip of the penis to the scrotum. The cause of hypospadias is not entirely understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors that affect urethral development in the fetus. Hormonal imbalances during pregnancy, family history of the condition, and maternal exposure to certain medications or environmental chemicals have been suggested as potential contributing factors. Hypospadias can lead to functional complications such as difficulties with urination, abnormal spraying, and challenges with sexual function later in life if not corrected. It may also be associated with a downward curvature of the penis, known as chordee, which can cause further complications with erections. Surgical correction is typically recommended, usually performed in infancy or early childhood, to relocate the urethral opening to its normal position and to straighten any penile curvature. While surgery generally has a high success rate, potential complications can include fistula formation (an abnormal connection between the urethra and the skin), scarring, and strictures (narrowing of the urethra), which may require further surgical intervention. The goal of treatment is to ensure normal urinary function, improve cosmetic appearance, and allow for typical sexual function in adulthood.