An Update on Modern Techniques for Proximal Hypospadias Repair
Abstract Purpose of review Severe hypospadias, defined as proximal meatal ectopy with significant ventral curvature, represents a complex reconstructive challenge for pediatric urologists. This review synthesizes contemporary evidence on techniques and considerations for severe hypospadias management. Recent Findings This review covers high-yield topics including but not limited to: preoperative hormonal stimulation, intraoperative curvature assessment to minimize erroneous operative decisions, globally favored staged reconstruction approaches, a general framework outlining management strategies, and more. Summary While mild phenotypes predominate prevalence, severe cases of hypospadias contribute disproportionately to surgical complexity, complication risk, and long-term morbidity. Numerous techniques have been used to address severe hypospadias, each with their own respective indications and limitations. Despite technical advances, long-term outcomes data remain limited by poor follow-up adherence, inconsistent phenotypic nomenclature, and underutilization of patient-reported outcome measures. Multi-center collaboration and standardized reporting frameworks are essential to advance evidence-based care and meaningfully counsel families on long-term functional and psychosocial outcomes.
Authors
- James T. Rague (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0431-8537)
- Morgan Sturgis
Institutions
- Rush University Medical Center (US)
- Lurie Children's Hospital (US)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Current Treatment Options in Pediatrics
- Published
- 2026-06-29
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1007/s40746-026-00380-w
- Primary Topic
- Urological Disorders and Treatments
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00