An International Delphi-Based Study for Developing a Core Outcome Set for Hypospadias Surgery

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Urology
• Surgical Outcomes Research
• Core Outcome Set Development

Background:

• Hypospadias surgery outcomes require standardized measurement for consistent reporting.
• A core outcome set (COS) aims to harmonize data collection across studies.
• Addressing reporting heterogeneity is crucial for advancing clinical understanding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define a consensus-based core outcome set (COS) for hypospadias surgery.
• To identify age-specific outcomes relevant to patients undergoing hypospadias repair.
• To improve the quality and comparability of research data in hypospadias surgery.

Main Methods:

• A three-round Delphi survey was employed, involving healthcare professionals, parents, and patients.
• Participants ranked and selected preferred outcomes for different age groups.
• Outcomes achieving over 70% consensus were designated as core outcomes.

Main Results:

• Four core outcomes (voiding, fistula, re-operation, urethral stricture) were consistent for younger boys (<6 and 10-11 years).
• Core outcomes for older boys (11-16 years and >16 years) included cosmesis, curvature, voiding, and psychosexual/psychosocial aspects, with variations.
• Low response rates were noted among parents and patients.

Conclusions:

• A core outcome set for hypospadias surgery shows consistency in younger age groups.
• Greater variability in core outcomes for older boys suggests a need for further research and consensus.
• The developed COS will aid in standardizing outcome assessment in hypospadias surgery research.