Meatal based hypospadias repair with the use of a dorsal subcutaneous flap to prevent urethrocutaneous fistula.

A technique using a dorsal dartos subcutaneous flap to wrap the neourethra after hypospadias repair is described. This method was used in a series of 204 meatal based repairs. Catheter drainage or diversion was not performed in any nontoilet trained child. The procedure was done on an ambulatory or 1-night hospitalization basis. No patient had a urethrocutaneous fistula. The additional covering of the neourethra with the dorsal subcutaneous flap appears to be excellent for avoiding the development of urethrocutaneous fistulas in patients with distal hypospadias.