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Hypospadius is one of the most common birth defects seen in infant males. The normal male urethral opening is at the tip of the penis. With hypospadius, the opening is on the underside of the penis. It is frequently associated with a shortening or downward bending of the penis. There are different degrees of hypospadius — some minor and others more severe.
Surgical repair is necessary to achieve normal urination, correct any penile deformity, and allow for normal sexual functioning. Repairs are usually done before the child reaches school age.
The exact cause of hypospadius is not known, but there is some family risk of hypospadius. A boy with hypospadius is likely to have another family member with hypospadius in approximately 20% of the cases.
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