Tubularized Incised Plate Urethroplasty: 5 Years’ Experience

Outcomes of Hypospadias Repair Based on Surgical Techniques: A 4-Year Retrospective Study

Purpose

This study aimed to report the outcomes of hypospadias repair performed at a tertiary-level hospital during 2018 to 2021.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of 119 patients was performed.

Results

The most frequent coronal hypospadias cases were distal. However, the most common scrotal hypospadias cases were proximal. The average age at the time of the first surgery was 2.4 years (standard deviation, ±2.3 years). The tubularised incised plate technique was performed for 57 of these 119 patients. Urethral fistula was the most common complication associated with distal and proximal cases (23.96% and 30.43%, respectively). No significant correlation was observed between any complication and the surgical technique. Based on the logistic regression model, the duration of urethral stenting was statistically significant (p=0.025), indicating that a urinary catheter duration of more than 5 days resulted in a 2.9-times increased risk of postoperative urethral fistula.

Conclusion

Prolonged urethral stenting for more than 5 days may result in subsequent urethral fistula development. Neither the severity of hypospadias nor the surgical technique seems to affect postoperative complications.

Cosmetic outcomes of grafted tubularized incised plate urethroplasty in primary distal penile hypospadias: prospective comparative study with the classic Snodgrass repair

Background

To compare the outcomes between classic tubularized incised plate (C-TIP), known as Snodgrass urethroplasty, and grafted TIP (G-TIP) in the repair of primary distal penile hypospadias.

Methods

Parents of all children presented to our tertiary care institution with primary distal penile hypospadias were asked to participate in this study. Patients were equally randomized using closed envelope method into two groups; Group A underwent repair using G-TIP and Group B underwent repair using the C-TIP. Circumcised cases and/or cases with penile chordee > 30 degrees were excluded from this study. Urethral catheter was kept for 7 to 10 days after surgery. The success rate and cosmetic outcomes assessed by HOSE score were evaluated at 6-month postoperatively.

Results

A total of 55 patients were recruited in each group. One hundred and seven patients of the 110 patients (54 and 53 in groups A and B, respectively) were evaluated at 6-month postoperatively using HOSE score. All preoperative data were comparable in both groups. Success was documented in 49/54 patients (90.7%) in group A. The five failures were secondary to two cases of glans dehiscence and three cases of residual postoperative chordee. Whereas, success was documented in 48/53 patients (90.5%) in group B. Complications were: a case of meatal stenosis, three cases of fistula, and a case of combined meatal stenosis and fistula. The HOSE score was comparable between the two groups (15.4 ± 1.09 vs. 15.6 ± 0.55; p = 0.29). However, the operative time was statistically longer in the G-TIP compared with the C-TIP (91.4 ± 6.2 min vs. 85.2 ± 6.3 min; p < 0.001), respectively.

Conclusion

The G-TIP urethroplasty provided comparable results with C-TIP in terms of cosmoses, success rate, and complications. However, G-TIP was accompanied with significantly longer operative time.

Learning curve of various type of male urethroplasty

Purpose

To determine the number of cases required to achieve a specified recurrence-free rate (>80%) among urethroplasty types.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis of consecutive patients, who underwent urethroplasty performed by a single surgeon between April 2013 and January 2019, was conducted. Urethroplasty subtypes were divided according to stricture location: penile, bulbar, and posterior. If there was no recurrence for >6 months after surgery, the surgery was considered to be a success. The average success rates among quintile groups were compared to determine the learning curve for each type.

Results

Of 150 patients who underwent urethroplasty, 112 were included in this study. The overall success rate was 89.7% in penile, 97.8% in bulbar, and 74.1% in posterior urethroplasty. Bulbar urethroplasty reached the target success rate in the first quintile group (1–9 cases). Penile urethroplasty also achieved the target success rate in the first quintile group (1–8 cases), and the success rate gradually increased until the fifth quintile group (32–39 cases). In posterior urethroplasty, the target success rate was achieved in the fifth quintile group (20–27 cases).

Conclusions

Bulbar urethroplasty had the fastest learning curve, and posterior urethroplasty the slowest.

Complications Following Primary Repair of Non-proximal Hypospadias in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Purpose: The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature on the complications and postoperative outcomes of children with non-proximal hypospadias. Methods: Electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library CENTRAL were searched systematically from January 1990 to June 2020 for the literature that reported the postoperative outcomes of patients with non-proximal hypospadias. Non-proximal hypospadias encompassed distal and mid-penile hypospadias. Results: We included 44 studies involving 10,666 subjects. Urethrocutaneous fistula (UCF) was the most common complication with an incidence of 4.0% (95% CI, 3.1-5.0%). Incidence of overall complications was 8.0% (95% CI, 6.3-9.8%). Meta-regression analysis revealed that length of urethral stent indwelling (coefficient 0.006; 95% CI, 0.000-0.011; p = 0.036) and penile dressing (coefficient 0.010; 95% CI, 0.000-0.021; p = 0.048) were two risk factors for UCF. Multivariate meta-regression analysis did not identify any independent risk factors for UCF. No differences were found between stent and stentless groups in non-proximal hypospadias regarding incidences of UCF (OR, 0.589; 95% CI, 0.267-1.297), meatal stenosis (OR, 0.880; 95% CI, 0.318-2.437), and overall complications (OR, 0.695; 95% CI, 0.403-1.199). No differences were found between foreskin preservation and circumcision in terms of complications either. Conclusions: UCF is the most common complication following hypospadias repair with an incidence of 4.0%. Independent risk factors for UCF were not identified in the current research. Distal hypospadias repair without stent indwelling is not likely to compromise the postoperative outcome. Further studies should be designed to explore the differences between different surgical approaches and the potential risk factors for complications following hypospadias repair.

A simple technique for small-diameter urethrocutaneous fistula repair: Ligation

OBJECTIVE

To describe a simple and effective technique for repairing a small-diameter urethrocutaneous fistula.

METHODS AND TECHNIQUE

A total of 13 patients with a solitary and small-diameter (≤2 mm) urethrocutaneous fistula underwent repair with a ligation technique.

RESULTS

None of the patients had voiding difficulties. One recurrent urethrocutaneous fistula occurred and it was successfully repaired with the same technique.

CONCLUSION

This is a simple, quick and useful technique, particularly for small-diameter (≤2 mm) urethrocutaneous fistulas.

Improved outcomes after technical modifications in tubularized incised plate urethroplasty for mid-shaft and proximal hypospadias

PURPOSE

To investigate and compare the outcomes after tubularized incised plate (TIP) urethroplasty in mid-shaft and proximal hypospadias using a standard and a modified technique.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study in 104 consecutive children who underwent mid-shaft or proximal TIP repairs from Jan 2007 to Sept 2015. Patients in Cohort One had dorsal dartos (DD) neourethral coverage while patients in Cohort Two had either de-epithelialized split preputial (DESP) or tunica vaginalis (TV) flap coverage. TV flap was used only when DESP flap was not sufficient to cover the neourethra.

RESULTS

There were 52 patients each in Cohort One (DD, n = 52) and Cohort Two (DESP, n = 38; TV, n = 14) with no difference in ratio of mid-shaft/proximal between the two cohorts. At a median follow-up of 28 months, 36 patients (34.6 %) developed 47 complications including fistula (n = 19; 18.3 %) and neourethral dehiscence (n = 4; 3.8 %). Cohort One patients had significantly more fistula (28.8 vs 7.7 %; p = 0.005) and neourethral dehiscence (7.7 vs 0 %; p = 0.04) than Cohort Two. There was no difference between the two cohorts in the complication rates of meatal stenosis, recurrent ventral curvature and neourethral stricture.

CONCLUSIONS

Both DESP and TV flap appear to be superior to DD in preventing fistula and neourethral dehiscence in non-distal TIP repairs.

Impact of changing trends in technique and learning curve on outcome of hypospadias repair: An experience from tertiary care center

Introduction:

Apart from numerous clinical factors, surgical experience and technique are important determinants of hypospadias repair outcome. This study was aimed to evaluate the learning curve of hypospadias repair and the impact of changing trends in surgical techniques on the success of primary hypospadias repair.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed of data of 324 patients who underwent primary repair of hypospadias between January 1997 and December 2013 at our center. During the initial 8 years, repairs were performed by multiple 5 different urologists. From 2005 onwards, all procedures were performed by a single urologist. The study cohorts was categorized into three groups; Group I, surgeries performed between 1997–2004 by multiple surgeons, Group II, between 2005–2006 during the initial learning curve of a single surgeon, and Group III, from 2007 onwards after completion of the learning curve of the single surgeon. The groups were compared in respect to surgical techniques, overall success and complications.

Results:

Overall 296 patients fulfilled the inclusion criterion, 93 (31.4%), 50 (16.9%), and 153 (51.7%) in Group I, II, and III, respectively. Overall success was achieved in 60 (64.5%), 32 (64%), and 128 (83.7%) patients among the three groups respectively (P < 0.01). Nineteen (20.4%), 20 (40%), and 96 (62.7%) patients underwent tubularized incised plate repair in Group I, II, and III, with successful outcome in 12 (63.2%), 15 (75%), and 91 (94.8%) patients, respectively (P < 0.01). The most common complication among all groups was urethrocutaneous fistula, 20 (21.5%) in Group I, 11 (22%) in Group II, and 17 (11.1%) in Group III.

Conclusion:

There is a learning curve for attaining surgical skills in hypospadias surgery. Surgeons dedicated for this surgery provide better results. Tubularized incised plate urethroplasty appear promising in both distal and proximal type hypospadias.

Is approximated de-epithelized glanuloplasty beneficial for hypospadiologist?

OBJECTIVE

Further evaluation of the cosmetic and functional results of approximated de-epithelized glanuloplasty in different degree of hypospadias.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This study included 96 male patients (DPH=68 & MPH=28). Patients selected for repair with glans approximation should have wide urethral plate & grooved glans. All cases were repaired with the classic TIP and glans approximation technique. Follow up was for one year by clinical examination of the meatal shape, size & site, glans shape, skin covering, suture line, urethral catheter, edema & fistula in addition to parent satisfaction.

RESULTS

Mean operative time was 49±9minutes. As regards the functional and cosmetic outcomes, success was reported in 95.8%, while failure was in 4.16% in the form of glanular disruption in two patients and subcoronal urethrocutaneous fistula in another two patients.

CONCLUSION

Glans approximation has many advantages, good cosmetic and functional results, short operative time, less blood loss, no need for tourniquet. Study of a large number of cases and comparing glans approximation with the classic TIP technique.

The effect of parenteral testosterone administration prior to hypospadias surgery: A prospective, randomized and controlled study

INTRODUCTION

The goal of hypospadias surgery is to provide a functionally and cosmetically normal penis. Whether this goal will be to the patient's satisfaction depends largely on the original anatomy, surgical technique and surgeon's experience. It has been suggested that androgen administration is associated with better outcomes in hypospadias repair; however, few studies have included control groups and the issue is still controversial.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effects of parenteral testosterone administration on the results of hypospadias repair in children with untreated hypospadias.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 182 children with midshaft or distal hypospadias and a mean age of 30 months (range 18-52 months) were enrolled in this study. Consecutive children were randomly allocated to the study group (testosterone administration) (Group 1, n = 91) or control group (Group 2, n = 91). Only children with a flat urethral plate were included in this study. The control group did not receive any pre-operative treatment. Children with a previous history of hypospadias repair and any proven endocrine disorder were excluded. The study children received 2 mg/kg testosterone enanthate monthly for two months before surgery. Tubularized incised plate (TIP) urethroplasty, with or without chordee correction, was performed for all children in both groups by the same urologist. Hypospadias repair was performed 4 weeks after the second dose of testosterone administration. Postoperative complications were recorded, including: urethrocutaneous fistulas, urethral diverticula, meatal stenosis, and glanular dehiscence. The mean stretched penile length and circumference were measured at baseline and at 1 month and 2 months post operation. All children were examined every month for any adverse affects to testosterone treatment, like pubic and axillary hair, and height acceleration, up to 3 months post operation.

RESULTS

An increase in penile length (from 28.1 ± 2.2 mm to 38.5 ± 2.6 mm) (P = 0.001) and penile circumference (from 35.1 ± 1.6 mm to 45.5 ± 2.2 mm) (P = 0.001) were noticed in all but four children in Group 1. The actual values for increase in penile length in the study group were, 22.0%, 35.0% and 36.0%, at postinjection months 1, 2 and 3, respectively (P = 0.01, P = 0.001 and P = 0.001, respectively) (Figure). The actual values for increase in penile circumference in the study group were, 16.0%, 27.0% and 29.0%, at postinjection months 1, 2 and 3, respectively (P=0.01, P=0.001 and P =0.001, respectively). The overall complication rates were significantly higher in Group 2 [12 children, 13.18%) compared to Group 1 (five children, 5.45%) (P=0.03). Urethrocutaneous fistula was the most common complication in both groups (four children [4.39%] in Group 1 and seven children [7.69%] in Group 2) (P=0.02), followed by meatal stenosis (one child [1.09%] in Group 1 and three children [3.29%] in Group 2) (P=0.03). All children in Group 1 developed pigmentation of the genitalia, and scant pubic hair appeared in 14 of them. These side effects disappeared by the 3 months postoperation follow-up visit.

DISCUSSION

Tubularized incised plate urethroplasty is a popular reconstructive method for hypospadias repair and is widely accepted by pediatric urologists. It is a reliable and simple technique with low complication rates. Testosterone administration before hypospadias repair decreases complication rates, reduces the need for reoperation and results in better cosmetic outcomes. Some studies have demonstrated temporary side effects like pubic hair growth and aggressive behavior, which gradually became normalized after treatment cessation. Nowadays, many pediatric urologists administer testosterone prior to hypospadias surgery; however, this can be variable.

CONCLUSION

Parenteral testosterone administration before hypospadias repair is beneficial in decreasing complication rates.

Meta-analysis of complication rates of the tubularized incised plate (TIP) repair

OBJECTIVE

To determine overall complication rates of the tubularized incised plate (TIP) repair and assess the effects of technical modifications, length of follow-up and geographical location of reported results.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic literature search was undertaken, using Medline and Pubmed, in order to identify relevant articles. Random effects models were used to estimate pooled complication rates. Meta-regression was performed for each outcome by using mixed effects models with type of hypospadias (primary distal, primary proximal and secondary) as predictors.

RESULTS

Of the 189 articles that were identified, 49 studies (4675 patients) were included in the analysis. Fistula and re-operation rates were significantly higher in secondary repairs (15.5% and 23.3%) compared to primary proximal (10.3% and 12.2%) and primary distal (5.7% and 4.5%) (P = 0.045 and P < 0.001, respectively). Technical modifications reduced fistula rates from 10.3% to 3.3% (P = 0.003) and re-operation rates from 13.6% to 2.8% (P = 0.001). The rate of meatal stenosis was highest in the secondary repairs, with follow-up >1 year (12.7%). Comparison of geographical location showed that complication rates for all but one variable were significantly lower in North America when compared to Europe and the rest of the world. Mean meatal stenosis rates were 1.8% in North America, 3.4% in Europe and 8.2% in the rest of the world (P = 0.002). This remained significant in a multivariable model incorporating repair technique and length of follow-up (P = 0.046). Mean rates of urethral stricture, fistula and re-operation followed a similar pattern (P = 0.045, P = 0.009 and P < 0.001, respectively). Mean follow-up was shortest in the North American group, at 11.9 months, compared to Europe, at 17.8 months, and the rest of the world, at 18.9 months.

DISCUSSION

The present meta-analysis has shown that the lowest complication rates for the TIP repair are when it is applied to primary distal hypospadias. Complication rates are higher for all variables when the TIP repair is used for primary proximal hypospadias. Lower complication rates than those reported in this TIP review have been documented in some studies using a staged repair for correction of primary proximal or secondary hypospadias [11,12,68], implying that a staged approach may be superior to the TIP repair in these settings. Documentation of follow-up duration was limited, making assessment of the impact of length of follow-up difficult. Geographical location had a noticeable effect on outcome, with all but one complication being lower in the North American than the other groups. Mean follow-up was shortest in North America and it is suggested that the short follow-up in the North American studies may have led to under-reporting of late complications.

CONCLUSION

The TIP repair has evolved to incorporate modifications that have significantly lowered complications. Higher complication rates are seen with secondary and proximal repairs; however, limited, published long-term data impair a true assessment of outcome.

Urethroplasty by use of turnover flaps (modified mathieu procedure) for distal hypospadias repair in adolescents: comparison with the tubularized incised plate procedure

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine whether urethroplasty with a turnover flap, as an alternative method of distal hypospadias repair in adolescents, improves the outcome of surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 2004 and December 2013, a total of 38 adolescents (aged 11-17 years) underwent distal hypospadias repair with either the tubularized incised plate (TIP) procedure (n=25) or the turnover flap procedure (n=13). The turnover flap procedure was performed with a proximal, ventral penile flap that was turned over to cover the urethral plate. Patient demographics, perioperative outcomes, complications, and postoperative uroflowmetry in each surgical group were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

The patient demographics were similar in the two groups. There were no significant differences in perioperative outcomes between the groups, including mean operative time, duration of hospital stay, and urethral catheterization. The number of patients with at least one complication, including wound dehiscence, urethrocutaneous fistula, meatal stenosis, and urethral stricture, was lower in the turnover flap group (1/13, 7.7%) than in the TIP group (11/25, 44%, p=0.030). The incidence of meatal stenosis was lower in the turnover flap group (0/12, 0%) than in the TIP group (6/25, 24%). In postoperative uroflowmetry, the plateau-shaped curve rate was lower in the turnover flap group (1/12, 8.3%) than in the TIP group (5/19, 26.3%); the peak flow was higher (p=0.030).

CONCLUSIONS

The turnover flap procedure is clinically useful for repairing adolescent distal hypospadias because it offers lower complication rates and better functional outcomes than TIP.

Modified double face onlay island preputial skin flap with augmented glanuloplasty for hypospadias repair

OBJECTIVE

To present and evaluate our initial results with a modified double face onlay preputial flap (DOPF) for repair of different degrees of hypospadias.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From April 2004 to April 2009, 182 patients with different degrees of hypospadias (distal penile hypospadias = 122, mid penile hypospadias = 38, proximal penile hypospadias = 22) were included in our study. All patients were treated with a modified DOPF. Their age ranged from 6 months to 10 years (mean 3.03 years). Selection criteria were those cases with urethral plate<8 mm with either flat or conical glans, and non-circumcised patients. The technique of repair was to use the distally tapered inner preputial mucosa as onlay to augment the narrow urethral plate, while the outer face was tapered distally to augment the closed proximal part of the glanular wings and as skin cover. Suitable urethral catheter was inserted for 3-5 days. Follow-up duration was 27-30 months (mean 24 months).

RESULTS

Functional and cosmetic success was reported in 176 patients (96.6%). Six patients (3.29%) had developed complications that affected the success rate: 1 (0.5%) glanular disruption, 2 (1.09%) fistula, 1 (0.5%) urethral diverticulum and 2 (1.09%) lateral penile torsion. Three (1.6%) patients had developed minor complications with no effect on functional and cosmetic success in form of superficial epidermal loss.

CONCLUSION

Modified DOPF is a suitable technique for repair of different types of hypospadias as it results in satisfactory functioning and an acceptable cosmetic appearance.

Age of patient is a risk factor for urethrocutaneous fistula in hypospadias surgery

OBJECTIVE

There is still much debate regarding the effect that age at hypospadias operation has on the rate of complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether patient age is a risk factor for surgical complications when using the tubularized incised plate (TIP) urethroplasty technique.

METHODS

Between 2005 and 2011, 307 pediatric patients with distal or mid-penile hypospadias underwent the TIP procedure. Demographic and surgical data were evaluated.

RESULTS

The complications recorded across all age groups were: fistula, meatal stenosis, glans dehiscence and urethral stenosis. Fistula was the most frequent complication in 10-14 year olds compared to the younger patient groups, and this difference was statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Age and surgical technique should be taken into consideration when planning hypospadias surgery, since the complication rate increases with patient age. The TIP technique is a safe procedure with a low rate of fistula formation in distal and mid-penile hypospadias repair for patients of any age during the prepubertal period.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing the perimeatal-based flap and tubularized incised-plate techniques for primary hypospadias repair

PURPOSE

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing the perimeatal-based flap (PBF) and tubularized incised-plate (TIP) techniques for primary hypospadias repair and determine whether the two techniques had similar reported outcomes.

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched using the terms: hypospadias, Snodgrass, TIP*, tubularized incised plate, tubularized incised-plate, Mathieu*, perimeatal-based flap, perimeatal flap, meatal-based flap and meatal based flap. No other limits were used. Inclusion criteria included: primary hypospadias repair only; both including the PBF and TIP techniques; at least one of the quantitative outcomes obtainable from study; comparative studies.

RESULTS

Twelve studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. Meta-analysis showed that there were no significant differences between the two techniques when comparing fistula (OR = 1.47; 95 % CI: 0.82-2.63; P = 0.20), meatal stenosis (OR = 0.53; 95 % CI: 0.24-1.16; P = 0.11), and wound dehiscence (OR = 0.82; 95 % CI: 0.24-2.84; P = 0.76). Both the studies which assessed cosmesis objectively showed a consistent better cosmetic result of the TIP technique (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

There were no significant differences of complication rates between the two techniques, and the TIP technique was usually of better cosmesis. Given the large clinical heterogeneity among studies, future more well-designed studies with full data and uniform criterion were awaited.

Outcome analysis of tubularized incised urethral plate using dorsal dartos flap for proximal penile hypospadias repair

PURPOSE

To assess the outcome of tubularized incised plate (TIP) urethroplasty in conjunction with a dorsal dartos flap for primary proximal penile hypospadias.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-nine patients with proximal penile hypospadias underwent a one-stage TIP urethroplasty with single-layer closure using polyglactin suture. A dorsal dartos (subcutaneous) flap, harvested from the dorsal penile shaft was used to cover the neourethra ventrally. Glanuloplasty was also performed in all cases. All patients had a well preserved urethral plate after straightening of the penis. Complications and cosmetic appearance were documented during follow-up.

RESULTS

Mean patient age at surgery was 23 months (16-72 months). Mean operative time was 180 min (154-240 min). At the mean follow-up of 36 months, the overall complication rate was 12% (4 fistulae, 1 meatal stenosis). Glandular dehiscence occurred in one patient, and 38 patients (78%) required dorsal Nesbit plication. No patient had residual chordee, neourethral stricture or a urethral diverticulum, and the neomeatus with a slit-like appearance was positioned at the glans tip.

CONCLUSIONS

TIP urethroplasty with dorsal dartos layer covering the neourethra is an effective treatment for primary proximal penile hypospadias with a preserved urethral plate and without severe curvature. There is a good cosmetic outcome with low risk of complications.

Tubularized incised plate hypospadias repair for distal hypospadias

PURPOSE

We report surgical technique and outcomes in consecutive patients with primary distal hypospadias.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospectively maintained database of all patients operated by WS in 2000-2008 was reviewed for pertinent data in consecutive patients.

RESULTS

A total of 551 consecutive patients of mean age 17 months underwent distal tubularized incised plate hypospadias repair by urethral plate tubularization with (459) or without (92) midline incision. Follow up occurred for 426 (77%) at a mean of 8.2 months. Calibration and/or uroflowmetry were obtained in 279 (65%). Complications developed in 19 (4%), including nine fistulas, nine glans dehiscences and one delayed meatal stenosis from balanitis xerotica obliterans. These complications could not be attributed to meatal location, urethral plate configuration or incision, suture materials or methods for urethroplasty and glansplasty, or to use or not of a dartos flap barrier layer.

CONCLUSIONS

No contraindication to urethral plate tubularization with or without incision was found in 551 consecutive patients operated for distal hypospadias. Reliability of the procedure was confirmed by the low complication rate and success using varied suture materials and methods.

Tubularized incised plate urethroplasty for distal hypospadias: A literature review

The tubularized incised plate (TIP) urethroplasty or Snodgrass procedure has gained worldwide acceptance for distal hypospadias repair due to its low complication rate, good cosmetic result, and technical simplicity. As a result, several articles have been published concerning various aspects and subtle variations of this procedure. The aim of this review is to critically and systematically analyze the published complication rates of TIP repair for distal hypospadias in children. We also reviewed the surgical modifications that have been introduced to the original technique and discussed the potential impact on the final outcome of the Snodgrass procedure.

A prospective randomized comparative study on the use of ventral subcutaneous flap to prevent fistulas in the Snodgrass repair for distal hypospadias

We evaluated the importance of urethral coverage using vascularized subcutaneous ventral flaps for the prevention of fistulas in patients undergoing distal hypospadias repair. Our prospective study included 130 patients, aged 9 months to 12 years, who underwent distal hypospadias repair using tubularized incised plate urethroplasty (TIPU), from January 2001 through January 2006. Patients were assigned to one of two groups by a computer-generated random selection: 65 patients underwent non-covered urethroplasty (NCU group); another group of 65 patients underwent covered urethroplasty (CU group) with a vascularized subcutaneous ventral flap. The results were evaluated by two pediatric surgeons unaware of the type of treatment each patient had undergone. Successful results were achieved in 99/130 patients (76.2%). We recorded 31 (23.8%) post-operative complications: 20 patients presented with a urethrocutaneous fistula (15 patients in the NCU group and 5 in the CU group); five with urethral stenosis (3 in the NCU and 2 in the CU group); and six with skin dehiscence of the preputioplasty (3 patients in each group). We analyzed the results using the chi2 test and the only statistically significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.05) was in terms of incidence of fistulas. Urethrocutaneous fistulas seem to be the most frequent complication of distal hypospadias after TIPU repair. Urethral coverage should be part of the Snodgrass procedure because it significantly reduces the formation of fistulas. A well-vascularized subcutaneous ventral flap represents, in our experience, a simple and optimal choice for the prevention of fistulas.

Quality assessment of hypospadias repair with emphasis on techniques used and experience of pediatric urologic surgeons

OBJECTIVES

To assess outcomes in hypospadias repair at our institution, as compared with the literature, with repair technique and surgeon considered as risk factors.

METHODS

The results of 299 primary hypospadias corrections were analyzed. All procedures were performed by three experienced pediatric urologists. Mean patient age at operation was 16.3 months. Follow-up was between 6 months and 5.5 years. Distal hypospadias repair was carried out in 242 patients, with tubularized incised plate reconstruction in 100 patients, advancement in 128, and the Mathieu technique in 14.

RESULTS

During follow-up, complications occurred overall in 93 patients (31%). For distal hypospadias complications occurred in 59 patients (24%). The most common findings for distal hypospadias were urethral fistulas (14.4%). The complication rate depended on the severity of the anomaly (0 glanular, 28% pericoronal, and 63% proximal) and the chosen technique (16% advancement technique versus 60% tubular techniques). We found statistically significant differences in complication rates between operating surgeons.

CONCLUSIONS

Complications after hypospadias surgery are frequent. They are multifactorial and depend mainly on the type of the anomaly, the chosen technique, and the experience of the surgeon. More studies are needed to obtain an internationally accepted quality indicator for the outcome of hypospadias repair.

Dorsal inlay graft urethroplasty for primary hypospadiac repair

OBJECTIVE

Tubularized incised plate urethroplasty has become a popular technique for repairing distal and proximal hypospadias in many institutions. Dorsal inlay graft urethroplasty has been used in our institution since 2003 to reduce the risk of meatal stenosis. In the present study, we evaluated the results of the dorsal inlay graft procedure.

METHODS

A total of 28 patients with no deep groove and no severe curvature underwent one-stage urethroplasty using an inner preputial-based dorsal inlay graft. The medical records of all patients were retrospectively reviewed with regard to complication rate and cosmetic appearance.

RESULTS

Mean patient age at surgery was 21 months (range, 14 months to 4.6 years). Preoperatively the urethral meatus was coronal in two cases, distal shaft in 17, proximal shaft in six and penoscrotal in three. Nine patients required testosterone therapy before surgery. Mean operative time was 200 min (range, 154-249 min). Mean length of inlay graft was 20.9 mm (range, 12-30 mm). In all patients, a straight penis was achieved without dorsal plication of the corposa cavernosa, and the neomeatus with a slit-like appearance was positioned at the glans tip. At a mean of 22 months of follow up, a urethrocutaneous fistula developed in only one patient (3.6%), requiring repair surgery 6 months after urethroplasty. No patient had meatal stenosis, neourethral stricture or urethral diverticulum along the inlay graft.

CONCLUSION

Dorsal inlay graft urethroplasty is an effective method for hypospadiac repair and leads to good cosmetic outcome with low risk of complications.

Healing of the Urethral Plate after Deep Incision: Does Catheterization Change the Course of This Process?

BACKGROUND

We aimed to evaluate the sequence of healing process as well as possible effects of stent placement on the healing process after deep urethral plate incision.

METHODS

A deep urethral plate incision was done at the 12 o'clock position. After that, in the first group (n = 14) the anterior urethra was stented with a silicon catheter. Animals in the second group (n = 14) underwent the same incision procedure, however no stent was placed after this operation. All animals in both groups were again divided into three groups with respect to the follow-up period (7-14 and 21 days). Partial penectomy was performed in all subgroups and histopathologic evaluation performed.

RESULTS

In the first group after 7 days, limited neovascularization and granulation tissue formation could be noted far away from the epithelial lumen. Evaluation of these specimens during the long-term follow-up (21 days) demonstrated an almost completely healed tissue with a remarkable neovascularization and well-developed granulation tissue. In the second group during 14-21 days, evaluation progression of tissue healing along with increasing vessel formation and re-epithelialization were demonstrated. Although the incision edges did show evident approximation, no sign of fibrosis could be demonstrated in these specimens.

CONCLUSION

We may say that tissue healing with a desired and complete re-epithelialization could be achieved without inserting a catheter. Prevention of re-approximation along with the limited urinary extravasations to the subepithelial area might be responsible for tissue protection that will limit the long-term aforementioned adverse effects of the procedure.

Tubularized incised plate urethroplasty for hypospadias reoperations in 100 patients

OBJECTIVES

To determine the key points for a successful redo hypospadias procedure using tubularized incised plate urethroplasty operation.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of a cohort of 100 patients (Mean age: 4.5 years, range: 2-12) who had undergone a redo tubularized incised plate urethroplasty operation was performed. Fischer exact and Chi square tests were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The incidence of complications of tubularized incised plate urethroplasty reoperation after failed repairs of meatal advancement and glanuloplasty procedure (n: 14), meatal based flap (n: 36), and tubularized incised plate urethroplasty (n: 50) were 29% (n: 4), 22% (n: 8) and, 28% (n: 14) respectively (P > 0.05). The overall complication rate was 26% (n: 26). Eighteen patients (18%) had fistula, five had meatal stenosis (5%), two had dehiscence (2%) and one had neourethral stenosis (1%). Postoperatively, fistula was closed in 18 patients and 5 underwent meatoplasty. Two patients with dehiscence and one with neourethral stenosis underwent an unsuccessful third redo tubularized incised plate urethroplasty reoperation and they were candidates for a complex hypospadias repair (3%). The ultimate success rate of tubularized incised plate urethroplasty reoperation after treatment of complications was 97%.

CONCLUSION

Tubularized incised plate urethroplasty is a safe and efficacious alternative procedure for hypospadias reoperations if the urethral plate has no scars and outcome is favourable if the first failed hypospadias repair is a meatal based flap procedure. The complication rate increases if the urethral plate has been previously incised in the midline and a redo third redo must be avoided.

Impact of patient age on distal hypospadias repair: a surgical perspective

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether the age at which the initial hypospadias repair is performed influences the complication rate of hypospadias repair.

METHODS

The records of 325 consecutive patients who underwent initial hypospadias repair were reviewed. The patients with glanular and coronal hypospadias underwent repair with either meatoplasty and glanuloplasty or a glans approximation procedure. Patients with subcoronal hypospadias and penile hypospadias underwent repair with tubularized incised plate urethroplasty. The patients were divided into 6-month age groups, and the complication rates were analyzed by age group using the chi-square test.

RESULTS

A total of 325 hypospadias repairs were performed from January 1999 to January 2005 by a single surgeon. Of the 325 cases, 194 tubularized incised plate procedures were performed, 69 meatoplasty and glanuloplasty procedures were performed, and 53 glans approximation procedures were performed. Nine tubularized island flap urethroplasties performed for penoscrotal hypospadias were excluded because we did not perform a significant number of proximal urethroplasties. Nineteen patients (6.0%) developed urethrocutaneous fistulas and six (1.9%) demonstrated dehiscence. Overall, 2 patients (2.2%) who underwent surgical repair within the first 6 months of age developed complications compared with 23 patients (10.3%) who underwent initial hypospadias repair when they were older than 6 months of age (P = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Tubularized incised plate, meatoplasty and glanuloplasty, and glans approximation urethroplasty are all excellent options for the surgical correction of hypospadias in the appropriately selected patient. The results of our study have indicated that complications are minimized when hypospadias repair is performed when the patient is 4 to 6 months of age.

Investigation of factors affecting result of distal hypospadias repair: comparison of two techniques

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the factors affecting the results, as well as the success of two techniques, by retrospectively investigating cases of distal hypospadias in which the patients had undergone Mathieu urethroplasty or tubularized incised plate urethroplasty.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 117 patients who underwent distal hypospadias repair. A percutaneous suprapubic catheter (Cistofix) and urethral split catheter were placed as a diversion in the 41 patients undergoing Mathieu urethroplasty. The Cistofix and urethral catheter were placed in 35 patients and a urethral catheter was placed in 41 of the patients who underwent tubularized incised plate urethroplasty. The success rates were compared according to the surgical technique, age, hypospadias status (primary or secondary), type of urinary diversion, and presence of chordee.

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference in the success rate was found between the two techniques. Furthermore, the different types of diversion used in tubularized incised plate urethroplasty did not affect the success rate. When the success of primary hypospadias repair (n = 84) was compared with secondary hypospadias repair (n = 33), success in patients with secondary hypospadias was low. No difference was observed when operational success was compared in terms of patient age (older versus younger than 5 years of age) or the presence or absence of chordee.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results have shown that tubularized incised plate urethroplasty should be preferred for distal hypospadias because of the better cosmetic results, invasive urinary diversions should be avoided, and the most importance should be given to the initial surgical intervention.