Hypospadias: a review.

Hypospadias is a common congenital anomaly with a prevalence estimated to be as high as 1 in 125 live male births. Its etiology is not entirely resolved but is embryologic in origin and has been attributed to fusion defects. Several authors believe it is a manifestation of intersex. Experience to date has produced a general consensus with regard to indications, timing and surgical principles for repair of the hypospadiac meatus. While two-stage procedures have been the mainstay of therapy, successful single-stage procedures have recently been developed. The prevention and management of the complications of persistant chordee, fistula and stricture make hypospadias repair one of the more challenging urologic procedures.