Evaluation of children with meatal stenosis

Not all patients with meatal stenosis require a complete urologic study. In those asymptomatic patients presenting with a small meatus found on routine examination, a urologic study is required only for clear historical or laboratory evidence of infection. Complete evaluation is still required for those patients with hematuria or a suggestive history on physical examination. We do not suggest abandoning the evaluation of meatal stenosis but hopefully provide guide lines for the evaluation of patients with a small meatus and no other symptoms or history. The management of these patients in the office or in day-care surgical facilities may be a suitable alternative to formal hospitalization. This should minimally include a careful history and physical examination, urinalysis, urine culture and consultation with the referring physician when necessary.