Urinary Tract Calculi VI: Surgical Management
Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System I: Health History
Urinary Tract Calculi II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
Urinary Tract Infection III: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Urologic Endoscopic Procedure: Cystoscopic Examination
You might also read
Articles linked to this work by shared authors, journal, and citation graph.
Updated: Feb 23, 2026

Transcorporal Artificial Urinary Sphincter Cuff Placement in a Case Requiring Revision for Urethral Atrophy
Published on: June 16, 2022
1Klinik und Poliklinik für Urologie, Kinderurologie und Uroonkologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122, Essen, Deutschland. iris.ruebben@uk-essen.de.
Hypospadias is a common birth defect affecting the urethra in boys. The condition is second only to other malformations in frequency. Recent studies show a rising incidence in the US but not in Europe. The exact cause is unknown, but genetic and environmental factors are suspected. In vitro fertilization is linked to a higher risk. Animal studies suggest that exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy may play a role. Surgery is often needed for functional or aesthetic reasons. However, complications increase with time after surgery. High-volume centers with more experience tend to have better outcomes. Long-term follow-up is important for managing the condition effectively.
Area of Science:
Background:
Hypospadias is a common birth defect affecting the urethra. It ranks second in frequency among childhood malformations. The condition involves incomplete tubularization of the urethra's ventral part. Recent data show a rising incidence in the US but not in Europe. Researchers have not yet identified the exact causes. Genetic and environmental factors are suspected contributors. In vitro fertilization is linked to a higher risk of hypospadias. Animal studies suggest hormonal imbalances and antiandrogen exposure may play a role.
Purpose Of The Study:
This review aims to examine the causes and management of hypospadias. It addresses the rising incidence and possible contributing factors. The study explores genetic and environmental influences. It also considers the role of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. The review investigates how in vitro fertilization affects risk. It evaluates the impact of prenatal hormonal exposure. The purpose includes analyzing surgical outcomes and complications. It highlights the importance of long-term follow-up and high-volume centers.
Main Methods:
The authors synthesized evidence from clinical and animal studies. They reviewed literature on genetic and environmental risk factors. They analyzed trends in hypospadias incidence across regions. They examined the role of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. They considered the impact of in vitro fertilization. They evaluated surgical techniques and complication rates. They assessed the influence of hospital volume on outcomes. They emphasized the need for detailed patient counseling and long-term follow-up.
Main Results:
The study found that hypospadias incidence has doubled in the US. No such increase was observed in Europe. Genetic and environmental factors remain poorly understood. In vitro fertilization is associated with a higher risk. Animal models show that antiandrogens like flutamide and phthalates may contribute. Surgical complications increase with longer follow-up periods. High-volume centers report lower complication rates. Long-term follow-up is essential for managing outcomes.
Conclusions:
The authors suggest that environmental and genetic factors may drive hypospadias. They note the need for further research into endocrine disruptors. They highlight the importance of prenatal hormonal exposure. They propose that in vitro fertilization increases risk. They emphasize the role of surgical expertise in outcomes. They recommend detailed discussions with families about surgery and risks. They suggest that long-term follow-up improves patient care. They conclude that high-volume centers improve complication rates.
The study suggests that both genetic and environmental factors may contribute to hypospadias, but the exact cause remains unidentified.
The study indicates that boys conceived through in vitro fertilization are more likely to have hypospadias than those from non-assisted pregnancies.
Long-term follow-up is important because the risk of complications increases with time after surgery.
Animal studies suggest that antiandrogens like flutamide and phthalates may contribute to hypospadias by disrupting prenatal hormonal balance.
High-volume centers with extensive experience report lower complication rates in hypospadias surgery.
The authors suggest further research into genetic and environmental factors, particularly endocrine-disrupting chemicals.