Complaints of Men with Uncorrected Distal Hypospadias

The few available reports regarding adults living with distal hypospadias give disparate views of the functional and aesthetic impact of this penile birth defect when it is not corrected. We reviewed symptoms and findings in consecutive men with unrepaired distal hypospadias and report those observations.

Men with uncorrected hypospadias were queried regarding urinary symptoms, sexual dysfunction, and aesthetic concerns. Glans fusion around the meatus was measured. Penile curvature was confirmed by photographs of erections, and its degree objectively measured in those undergoing surgery.

There were 51 men with a mean age of 42 years (18-63). None had glans fusion around the meatus, and the main symptom was urine spraying in 81%. Penile curvature was present in 33%. Painful sexual activity was reported by 34% due to penile curvature, exposed urethral mucosa, or a scrotal web. All but one man experienced functional problems. In addition, 60% were bothered by their abnormal appearance.

All but one of these men with uncorrected distal hypospadias had penile dysfunction, and 60% were additionally concerned about the atypical appearance of their penis. These results offer a different perspective than earlier reports which said that most men with uncorrected distal hypospadias were not bothered by their condition, and many were not aware of it.