Persistent or recurrent ventral curvature after failed proximal hypospadias repair

For the penile length-how shall we choose the straightening procedures in hypospadias repair?

OBJECTIVE

To define the appropriate penile straightening procedures corresponding to the specific penile curvature by comparing the penile length resulting from various straightening procedures in hypospadias repair.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed hypospadias patients between 2017 and 2019. Patients were divided into three groups based on the penile curvature after degloving: <30°, 30°-45°, and >45°. The penile straightening procedures include dorsal plication (DP), simple urethral plate (UP) transection, and UP transection with ventral lengthening (VL). The paired t-test was conducted for the penile length after fully straightening in each group, simultaneously calculating the length changes (∆T). In addition, the penile length changes among these procedures were compared using Spearman analysis to show the correlation between the penile curvature and the length.

RESULTS

The penile length changed significantly after fully straightening in all groups. The length decreased mildly after DP, while increased in the other procedures. The penile curvature after degloving was positively correlated with the absolute change in the penile length (P < 0.001, r = 0.424) and the ratio of ∆T in the original length (P < 0.001, r = 0.433).

CONCLUSION

For hypospadias, the 30° after degloving may serve as the cut-off for the selection of the straightening method from the perspective of the penile length. For those with < 30°, methods such as DP or UP transection can either be selected. In patients with > 30°, DP should be used with caution because of the potential risk to shorten the penis. In contrast, UP transection effectively corrects the penile curvature and increases the penile length concurrently, which should be primarily recommended in those patients.

Plate Objective Scoring Tool (POST) in distal hypospadias: Correlation with post-repair complications

OBJECTIVES

The Plate Objective Scoring Tool (POST) accurately reflects configuration of the urethral plate in distal hypospadias. Here we assessed whether POST score also correlates with patient risk of complications after surgical repair.

METHODS

Data were obtained prospectively from pre-pubertal boys who underwent primary hypospadias repair between January 2020 and February 2023. Both POST and Glans-Urethral Meatus-Shaft (GMS) scores were determined in triplicate by three independent reviewers before evaluating correlation with complications after surgery.

RESULTS

POST ratios were strongly correlated with incidence of post-repair complications in n = 121 patients. Mean POST score was 1.10 (range 0.5-1.62) and average GMS value was 5.29 ± 1.36 (median G = 2, M = 2, S = 1). Bivariate correlation analysis indicated that POST score can accurately predict risk of complications after surgery (Pearson correlation coefficient r = 0.821 [0.724-0.918], 95 % CI). A POST threshold of 1.2 provided the highest specificity for risk of post-operative complications, which occurred in 4.4 % of patients with POST score ≥1.2 (2/45 cases), compared with 25 % among patients with POST score <1.2 (19/76 cases).

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms that POST index can be used as a surrogate marker of urethral plate quality and accurately predicts the outcome of distal hypospadias repair. Objective scoring of POST revealed that low ratios were significantly associated with high risk of postoperative complications. In future, this approach could be used to stratify patients and better identify cases that require close follow-up care.

A scoping review on chordee correction in boys with ventral congenital penile curvature and hypospadias

Introduction

Congenital penile curvature (PC), often concomitant with hypospadias, poses challenges in urology. Surgical correction techniques, including plication and corporotomy, lack standardized guidelines. This study aims to address the paucity of high-level evidence by comprehensively reviewing the outcomes of PC correction procedures in patients with and without hypospadias. This will inform clinical decision-making and provide insights for future research and meta-analyses.

Methods

We conducted this scoping review in accordance with the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. An extensive literature search was performed and comparative studies published in English up to June 2023 were included. The studies were divided into three categories: PC without hypospadias, PC with hypospadias, and studies comparing two or more materials for covering the ventral corporotomy. Data extraction comprised author details, patient characteristics, study design, interventions, outcomes, and complications. Methodological quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Results

Forty-two studies were included in the review, which collectively comprised 3180 patients. Thirteen comparative studies reported the outcomes of surgery for congenital PC without hypospadias, 22 studies compared different techniques of PC correction in patients with hypospadias and 7 studies compared the type of materials for coverage following ventral corporotomy. In cases of PC without hypospadias, the most commonly reported surgery was the Nesbit's plication. For PC with hypospadias correction, the results of ventral corporotomy were superior to that of dorsal plication in most of the studies. The two-stage repair had better results when compared to the one-stage repair for patients with perineo-scrotal hypospadias. In studies comparing materials for coverage of ventral corporotomy, the tunica vaginalis flap or graft was utilized most commonly. The majority of the studies reported a success rate ranging from 85% to 100%. The methodological quality was high in all but four studies.

Conclusion

Plication procedures are generally preferred for PC without hypospadias, but they result in penile shortening. For those with hypospadias, corporotomy is associated with superior outcomes than plication, especially for those with severe curvature and redo procedures. For ventral corporotomy coverage, the tunica vaginalis flap or graft is the most commonly reported tissue in the literature.

Comparison of outcomes in three surgical techniques for proximal hypospadias: staged transverse preputial island flap urethroplasty versus single-stage repairs

To evaluate and compare the outcomes and complications of three different surgical techniques for treating primary proximal hypospadias with ventral curvature (VC) ≥30°, we retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent primary repair of proximal hypospadias with VC ≥30° after degloving at Beijing Children's Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University (Beijing, China) from January 2019 to January 2021. A total of 152 patients were divided into three groups: transverse preputial island flap (TPIF) combined with Duplay, modified Koyanagi, and staged TPIF, which were performed on 55, 16, and 81 patients, respectively. A total of 39 (25.7%) patients had complications. Complications rates were similar for the TPIF combined with the Duplay group (40.0%) and modified Koyanagi group (50.0%) but lower for the staged TPIF group (11.1%; P < 0.01). The incidence of urethrocutaneous fistulas was significantly higher in TPIF combined with Duplay group (21.8%) compared to staged TPIF group (4.9%; P = 0.01). In univariate analysis, the length of the urethral defect was the single factor that could predict complications; the cutoff was 4.55 cm. More patients in the long urethral defect group than in the short one had complications (34.1% vs 15.7%, P = 0.01). These results indicate that staged TPIF produced a better outcome, whereas more patients in the TPIF combined with Duplay group presented with two or more complications.

Unaided visual assessment of ventral curvature during hypospadias repair is inferior to objective measurement using app goniometry

OBJECTIVE

Failure to perform artificial erection or objectively assess ventral curvature (VC) during primary hypospadias repair is an important reason for residual/ recurrent chordee. The present study compares the accuracy of unaided visual inspection (UVI) with objective VC assessment using smartphone application (app) goniometry.

METHODS

All patients who underwent primary hypospadias repair between January 2021 and September 2022 were included. Assistant surgeons were asked to grade the degree of VC on UVI (after degloving and an artificial erection test) into: none, mild (<30 degree), severe(>30 degree). Lateral profile photograph was taken and angle measurement was performed on an android mobile application (Angulus). Correlation was performed with both methods of assessment.

RESULTS

During this period a total of 210 patients were analyzed; VC was noted in 40/138 (29%) cases of distal and in 62/72 (86%) cases of proximal hypospadias. Erroneous visual inspection was noted in 41/210 (20%; 95% CI 14-25%) on UVI (15 erroneously marked none while 26 marked mild). Among those found to have chordee, UVI assessed 39/82 (47%) as severe while app goniometry assessed 65/97 (67%) as severe. There was significant relative risk of labelling severe chordee as a mild one by UVI: 1.4 (95%CI 1-1.8; p=0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

UVI was erroneous in 20% of cases. UVI was less accurate in differentiating severe chordee from mild one. In 60% patients UVI alone could have led to erroneous VC assessment and thus wrong selection of technique. Further studies are required to validate our findings and standardize VC measurement using an app goniometry.

Identifying variability in surgical practices and instrumentation for hypospadias repair across the Western Pediatric Urology Consortium (WPUC) network

BACKGROUND

Although hypospadias outcomes studies typically report a level or type of repair performed, these studies often lack applicability to each surgical practice due to technical variability that is not fully delineated. An example is the tubularized incised plate (TIP) urethroplasty procedure, for which modifications have been associated with significantly decreased complication rates in single center series. However, many studies fail to report specificity in techniques utilized, thereby limiting comparison between series.

OBJECTIVE

With the goal of developing a surgical atlas of hypospadias repair techniques, this study examined 1) current techniques used by surgeons in our network for recording operative notes and 2) operative technical details by surgeon for two common procedures, tubularized incised plate (TIP) distal and proximal hypospadias repairs across a multi-institutional surgical network.

STUDY DESIGN

A two-part study was completed. First, a survey was distributed to the network to assess surgeon volume and methods of recording hypospadias repair operative notes. Subsequently, an operative template or a representative de-identified operative note describing a TIP and/or proximal repair with urethroplasty was obtained from participating surgeons. Each was analyzed by at least two individuals for natural language that signified specified portions of the procedure. Procedural details from each note were tabulated and confirmed with each surgeon, clarifying that the recorded findings reflected their current practice techniques and instrumentation.

RESULTS

Twenty-five surgeons from 12 institutions completed the survey. The number of primary distal hypospadias repairs performed per surgeon in the past year ranged from 1-10 to >50, with 40% performing 1-20. Primary proximal hypospadias repairs performed in the past year ranged from 1-30, with 60% performing 1-10. 96% of surgeons maintain operative notes within an electronic health record. Of these, 66.7% edited a template as their primary method of note entry; 76.5% of these surgeons reported that the template captures their operative techniques very or moderately well. Operative notes or templates from 16 surgeons at 10 institutions were analyzed. In 7 proximal and 14 distal repairs, parameters for chordee correction, urethroplasty suture selection and technique, tissue utilized, and catheter selection varied widely across surgeons.

CONCLUSION

Wide variability in technical surgical details of categorically similar hypospadias repairs was demonstrated across a large surgical network. Surgeon-specific modifications of commonly described procedures are common, and further evaluation of short- and long-term outcomes accounting for these technical variations is needed to determine their relative influence.

A new method for measuring penile curvature based on digital images

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

Accurate and objective assessment of penile curvature is considered a critical evaluation in patients with hypospadias, as it often determines if a 1 or 2-stage procedure should be done. Due to the ease of acquisition and reusability of digital images, more research is focused on digital images; however, the current method based on digital images is not an easily accurate and objective evaluation of penile curvature amongst surgeons. In scoliosis, the Cobb method is a standard method to quantify spinal curvature. Therefore, this study introduces a new accurate, and standardized method for measuring penile curvature based on the digital image concerning the Cobb method.

METHODS

Twenty-two subjects were randomly selected, including 11 pediatric urologists with experience in goniometry(professional group)and 11 non-pediatric urologists without experience in goniometry (non-professional group). A total of 9 two-dimensional images of penile curvatures from 10° to 90°were obtained and stored in the research project notebook. Subjects measured 9 digital images using the new method (fixed anatomical position method) and classical method (the angle created by the interception of two ideal lines, one passing along the proximal portion of the corpora and a second passing through the tip of the penis), respectively. Measurement error was calculated as the absolute difference between the true curvature and the subject estimation. A t-test was used to evaluate the significant differences between the methods.

RESULTS

A total of 22 subject measurement data were obtained. Mean errors using the new method ranged from 1.06° to 3.50°, compared to 3.84°to 11.83°for classical method. Mean errors were significantly lower (p < 0.05) when using the new method compared to the classical method. A subgroup comparing subjects with and without prior experience with goniometry showed a statistically significant difference only for the classical method when the penis curvature is 10-40°, the mean error range of the professional group was 7.8°-9.56°, compared to 10.34°-13.02°for nonprofessional group.

DISCUSSION

We emphasize the importance of penile curvature measurement and urgent need for an accurate measurement method, and then we focus on the new method compare with the previously described methods looking at mean errors and explain the reason that the new method why is accurate. Subsequently, we focus on explain the impact of experience measurement methods. Finally, the shortcomings of this paper and the prospective points are discussed:1) how to obtain more photos in practical situations; 2) using artificial intelligence methods for automatic marking of key points to achieve efficient measurement of penile curvature.

CONCLUSIONS

In this preliminary study, we demonstrated better penile curvature estimations using the new method compared to the classical methods currently used by pediatric urologists.

Glans dehiscence after severe hypospadias repair. Is it a real complication? Clues from a study in post-pubertal patients

INTRODUCTION

Glans dehiscence (GD) is reportedly a common complication after proximal hypospadias repairs. However, the need for surgical correction is controversial. The aim of this study was to assess awareness, risk factors, and outcome of GD in post-pubertal patients. The agreement with surgeon assessment was also evaluated.

METHODS

The design was retrospective. All consecutive patients treated for proximal hypospadias between 2000 and 2011 were included. The presence of GD was self-reported, and the participants could optionally upload a photograph for surgeon assessment. Cosmetic and functional outcomes were assessed by validated questionnaires (HOSE, PPPS, KINDL®, IIEF-5). Results were compared between patients with and without GD.

RESULTS

Of 219 patients, 34 (16%) participated. Fourteen of them (41%) self-reported GD. Eighteen patients (8%) also uploaded a photograph and, in ten of them (56%), the surgeon noted the presence of GD with poor agreement [k = - 0.444 (95 CI - 0.856 to - 0.033)] with patient report. Patients self-reporting GD had had more frequently a penile curvature at diagnosis (12/14 = 86%, p = 0.01), and had undergone a single-staged repair (100% vs. 65%, p = 0.03). No difference was found in cosmetic and functional outcomes. Results were similar also comparing groups with and without GD as assessed by the surgeon.

CONCLUSION

GD was a common finding after severe hypospadias repair. It was more common in case of surgeon assessment with poor agreement between patients and surgeons. GD did not prove to have clear clinical implications. Therefore, in our opinion, surgical repair of GD should be recommended only on patients request.

Automated quantification of penile curvature using artificial intelligence

Objective

To develop and validate an artificial intelligence (AI)-based algorithm for capturing automated measurements of Penile curvature (PC) based on 2-dimensional images.

Materials and methods

Nine 3D-printed penile models with differing curvature angles (ranging from 18 to 88°) were used to compile a 900-image dataset featuring multiple camera positions, inclination angles, and background/lighting conditions. The proposed framework of PC angle estimation consisted of three stages: automatic penile area localization, shaft segmentation, and curvature angle estimation. The penile model images were captured using a smartphone camera and used to train and test a Yolov5 model that automatically cropped the penile area from each image. Next, an Unet-based segmentation model was trained, validated, and tested to segment the penile shaft, before a custom Hough-Transform-based angle estimation technique was used to evaluate degree of PC.

Results

The proposed framework displayed robust performance in cropping the penile area [mean average precision (mAP) 99.4%] and segmenting the shaft [Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC) 98.4%]. Curvature angle estimation technique generally demonstrated excellent performance, with a mean absolute error (MAE) of just 8.5 when compared with ground truth curvature angles.

Conclusions

Considering current intra- and inter-surgeon variability of PC assessments, the framework reported here could significantly improve precision of PC measurements by surgeons and hypospadiology researchers.

How accurate is eyeball measurement of curvature? A tool for hypospadias surgery

INTRODUCTION

Correction of penile curvature or "chordee" is a major component in the management of hypospadias. Accurate assessment and management of penile curvature influence both short- and long-term outcomes of surgery.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study is to investigate the accuracy of eyeball measurement and how does it compare to objective measurement by standard goniometry (SG) and smartphone app goniometry (AG).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A Dropbox file request link was shared with paediatric urologists on various social media platforms requesting participants to upload a picture of their index finger showing what they thought 30 degrees of curvature look like using their proximal inter phalangeal joint as the point of maximal curvature., The images were assessed using SG to measure the angle of curvature. The images were also assessed using AG by the principal investigator, a physician, a scrub nurse and a paediatric urology consultant., Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS statistics software version 26 (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp). A one sample t-test and a one-way chi squared test were used to evaluate significant frequency differences. Pearson correlation was used to compare AG measurements to test intra- and inter-observer reliability and to compare AG measurements vs SG measurements. Assuming 5-degree variability in goniometer measurements and 2-degree difference between the sample and population, the number of participants needed was calculated to be 49.

RESULTS

Fifty-two responses were received.32.7% of respondents simulated 30° accurately (17/52). A significant proportion (23/52, 44.2%) overrepresented the degree of curvature and 23.1% (12/52) underrepresented it (p = 0.01). Compared with objective measures, eyeball estimates differed by an average of 10° ± 1.5 SE. Measurements obtained by AG were comparable to measures obtained by SG and showed excellent intra-observer and inter-observer correlation (R = 0.983, P < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

We demonstrated a significant discrepancy between eyeball assessment of curvature and objective measurements in a cohort of hypospadiologists. This can be very relevant to intraoperative decision making. The limitation of the study is the use of a simulated model rather than assessment of curvature in patients with hypospadias. Another limitation is the lack of standardization of the way the pictures were taken.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated a tendency among hypospadiologists to overestimate or underestimate curvature by an average of 10° on eyeball assessment. The use of App Goniometry shows excellent interobserver reliability and is comparable to standard goniometry in curvature assessment.

Evaluation of penile curvature in patients with hypospadias; gaps in the current practice and future perspectives

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Penile curvature (PC) is a significant phenotypic anomaly associated with hypospadias that can affect hypospadias repair post-operative outcomes and impact on long-term quality of life as well as psychosexual wellbeing of affected patients. While several previous studies have attempted to define PC assessment criteria, there is still no accurate, reproducible, and reliable tool for quantifying severity. Our goal was to review the pros and cons of the current tools utilized for assessing the degree of PC in children, stressing on both strengths and limitations of each method.

METHODS

A wide and deliberate review of the literature discussing the assessment of PC in hypospadias patients was conducted. We also draw on relevant methods employed in adults with PC and Peyronie's disease where a greater breadth of studies has been conducted.

RESULTS

The appraisal outcomes combined with our recommendations were presented in a structured approach discussing the pre-, intra-, and post-operative evaluation of PC in patients with hypospadias. Critical appraisal of the evaluation tools in terms of availability, cost, objectivity, and potential reproducibility was presented.

CONCLUSION

This review reflects on current tools used for assessing the degree of PC in children, highlighting both strengths and limitations of each method. A wide variety of approaches are currently being practiced or investigated, with each method displaying particular utility and reliability characteristics. Several approaches are currently being explored with high potential to overcome the current difficulties encountered when measuring PC both in clinical practice and research studies.

Plate Objective Scoring Tool: A new preoperative indicator of penile curvature degree in children with distal hypospadias

OBJECTIVES

There is an unmet need for preoperative methods that surgeons can use to objectively quantify hypospadias anatomic variables and determine risk of penile curvature. We, therefore, assessed whether Plate Objective Scoring Tool measurements were correlated with degree of ventral curvature in affected children.

METHODS

Patients undergoing distal hypospadias repair were enrolled into the study between January 2018 and December 2020 and were categorized independently by at least two surgeons using Plate Objective Scoring Tool. Scores were compared statistically to determine the degree of ventral curvature and requirement for correction.

RESULTS

Sixty-five patients with a median age of 18 months (interquartile range 13-26) were enrolled into the study prior to surgery for primary distal hypospadias. Patient probability of significant postoperative curvature (>20°) was determined with moderate confidence using a cutoff Plate Objective Scoring Tool score of 1 (sensitivity 75%, specificity 60%). Presurgery Plate Objective Scoring Tool scores were negatively correlated with subsequent degree of curvature (r = -0.37, P = 0.003), with values <1.0 predicting >20° curvature.

CONCLUSIONS

Plate Objective Scoring Tool scoring offers a succinct method of describing hypospadias severity and correlates well with postoperative outcomes. The Plate Objective Scoring Tool system can therefore be used to objectively predict the likelihood of penile curvature and aid communication between surgeons and researchers, as well as improving parental counseling.

A meta-analysis comparing dorsal plication and ventral lengthening for chordee correction during primary proximal hypospadias repair

PURPOSE

Recurrent chordee (RC) is an important complication of proximal hypospadias repair. In this meta-analysis we compared RC incidence following dorsal plication (DP) versus ventral lengthening (VL).

METHODS

We searched the databases to identify all papers between 2001 and 2021 pertaining to proximal hypospadias and recurrent chordee. Duplicate publications, review articles and incomplete articles were excluded. Meta-analysis of heterogeneity was reported with I² statistics. The pooled outcomes were compared to Chi square/Fishers exact test.

RESULTS

A total of 17 articles were included covering 582 patients. The I² statistics for prevalence of RC among different publications showed no heterogeneity for DP (I² = 0%) and low heterogeneity for VL (I² = 26%). RC was noticed in 31/122 (25.4%; 95% CI 18%-33%) among patients who had DP alone while it was significantly lower, 24/460 (5.3%; 95% CI 4%-8%) when VL was used (p = 0.0001). When compared to DP, all VL techniques had significantly lower incidence of RC. Among the VL techniques lowest incidence of RC was found for ventral corporotomies (4%) followed by small-intestinal- submucosa (SIS 4.2%) and tunica vaginalis flap (TVF)/free graft-TVFG (5%). Among the VL subtypes: the proportion of RC with use of TVF (4/70, 5.7%) and TVFG (3/69, 4.3%) for corporoplasty was comparable (p = 1); single-layer SIS was associated with significantly less RC (1/90, 1.1%) than 4-layer SIS (5/51, 9.8%; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

For correction of severe ventral chordee during primary proximal hypospadias repair, dorsal plication carries a higher risk of recurrence compared to ventral lengthening procedures.

High grade persistent ventral curvature after multiple hypospadias surgery: how to correct?

Introduction:

A challenging situation in proximal hypospadias is the presentation of patients with successful urethroplasty but with persistent or recurrent ventral curvature (VC) after multiple hypospadias repair.

Materials and Methods:

We present a 13 year-old boy with 7 previous surgeries (long TIP, Duplay, meatoplasty) to treat hypospadias presenting with 60 degrees of VC, in spite of a well-accepted coronally neomeatus. We degloved the penis and artificial erection clearly appointed corporal disproportion causing curvature. We disconnected urethra from corpora. After excision of remnant fibrotic tissue, there was a residual curvature so a lenghtening corporoplasty with dermal graft from groin was performed. We have adjusted the urethral meatus position into a proximal penile shaft. We used a buccal mucosa graft placed in an inverted U-shape position planning a second stage urethroplasty (1). An indwelling silicone Foley tube was left for one week. The patient was discharged the day after surgery.

Results:

The aspect after corporoplasty proved satisfactory curvature correction. Patient had an excellent outcome and is scheduled for a second-stage after 6 months.

Discussion:

Snodgrass and Bush (2) reported that on 73 patients with an average of 2.7 operations for proximal shaft to perineal hypospadias; of which, 83% had VC at re-operation averaging 50°. We do believe that some good results with minimal dorsal plicature may recur in adolescence and therefore when these procedures may be considered, they should be performed by classic Nesbit technique (3). Otherwise, the choice for primary ventral lengthening should be taken.

Conclusion:

Severe curvature associated with hypospadias should undergo a major procedure at early stage to avoid decompensation after dorsal plicature in adolescence. We had a very satisfactory result, the patient awaits the second stage procedure (Figure-1).

Figure 1

Surgical management of primary severe hypospadias in children: an update focusing on penile curvature

Over the past two decades, assessment and treatment of associated curvature has emerged as a major issue in treating patients with proximal hypospadias. However, the cut-off for defining a curvature as clinically significant is still unclear, as not all patients are bothered by the same degree of curvature and, although the need for a method to assess the curvature objectively has been emphasized, no standard method yet exists. Curvature is multifactorial. The same degree of curvature can be due to any possible combination of skin and/or subcutaneous dartos tethering, a short urethral plate and an intrinsic corpora disproportion. Different strategies can be used to treat curvature, depending on the underlying cause, surgeon preferences, and the goals of the repair. In the past 10 years, use of urethral plate transection and ventral lengthening procedures has increased, although the lack of long-term follow-up data on ventral lengthening procedures suggests that the use of such procedures should be selective. Furthermore, straightening manoeuvres are influenced by the technique used for subsequent urethroplasty and, in turn, may influence the success rate of the urethroplasty. This Review provides a comprehensive overview of the major developments from the past 10 years in the management of severe proximal hypospadias in children.

Acellular dermal matrix graft for ventral corporal lengthening orthoplasty in 2-stage proximal hypospadias repair

BACKGROUND

Correcting ventral curvature (VC) by lengthening the ventral corpora using a graft has been verified feasible, but still has been associated with the recurrence. The use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) in the setting of tissue reconstruction has captured the attention of many surgeons. There are few reports on the use of ADM exclusively as correction of VC. Thus, we evaluate the safety and effectiveness of repairing the defect with ADM for straightening the VC in proximal hypospadias repair.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the records of patients with proximal hypospadias who underwent ventral corporal lengthening with graft in staged repair from January 2013 to December 2019. Those with curvature greater than 30° after urethral plate transection were enrolled. ADM was used for repairing the defect left by transversely transection of tunica albuginea. Patient outcomes were compared with the non-matched control group who underwent the same procedure with tunica vaginalis (TV) repair. Patient demographics, operative techniques, complications, reoperations were summarized and compared between 2 groups.

RESULTS

Forty-three patients underwent ventral lengthening with ADM repair after transverse urethral plate transection and 35 patients with TV patching respectively. At a mean follow-up of 10 months in those with the first-stage ventral lengthening, 5 of 43 (11.6%) in ADM group was detected with recurrent VC, while 2 of 35 (5.7%) in TV group were observed with recurrent curvature contemporarily (P=0.363). At a mean follow-up of 46.8 and 45.3 months, persistent curvature in ADM group was not significantly different comparing to TV group (1/43, 2.3% vs. 1/35, 2.9%; P=0.883).

CONCLUSIONS

Ventral corporal lengthening using ADM graft may facilitate correction of VC without increasing the risk of urethroplasty complications. It offers a promising material that can be safe, effective and simple to use and provides psychological and aesthetic benefits. Additional series assessment and further randomized controlled trials will elucidate the clinical impact of using ADM with ventral lengthening.

Paediatric Buccal Mucosal Graft Urethroplasty for Non-Hypospadias Urethral Strictures: A Single Centre Experience with Long Term Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To review our experience in the management of paediatric urethral strictures with buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty and its long term outcomes.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained data base between 2009-2019. Circumcised children with long segment urethral strictures (> 1.5 cm) were included. They were characterized as either peno-bulbar (PBS) or isolated bulbar strictures (IBS) based on a standardized protocol. All children underwent single stage dorsal onlay buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty by either the Kulkarni technique (PBS group) or the Barbagli technique (IBS group). All children were followed up at 3 months, then annually thereafter with flow rates at each visit. Success was defined as a flow rate > 10ml/sec with a bell-shaped curve and absence of need for any secondary procedures.

RESULTS

28 children underwent buccal mucosal graft uretheroplasty.16 children were diagnosed with PBS & 12 children with IBS. The median age was 7.5 years (2-17 years) in PBS and 5.5 years (3-10 years) in IBS. Iatrogenic injury was the commonest aetiology ie 71 % (20/28). Mean length of stricture was 4 cm (3-5.5 cm) in PBS and 2.5 cm (2-3.5 cm) in IBS. Median follow up was 96 months (24-120 months) in PBS and 90 months (36-120 months) in IBS. The success rate was 87.5% (14/16) in PBS and 83.3% (10/12) in IBS.

CONCLUSION

Single stage dorsal on lay buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty, ie Kulkarni and Barbagli techniques are safe and feasible in children with long segment urethral strictures with good long-term outcomes.

Recurrent ventral curvature after proximal TIP hypospadias repair

EXTENDED SUMMARY

Most boys with proximal hypospadias have ventral curvature (VC) which must be straightened while preserving the urethral plate to use TIP repair. That is usually done by dorsal plication (DP). However, we reported recurrent VC was commonly found after DP in boys with proximal urethroplasty complications, and have diagnosed VC in patients similarly straightened by WS. We reviewed our proximal TIP patients and now report their recurrent VC.

METHODS

We used a prospectively-maintained database to identify all patients with proximal TIP by WS and document recurrent VC. Penile straightening was primarily done by midline DP using 5-0 or 6-0 polypropylene, and/or other maneuvers including combinations of urethral plate elevation off the corpora, mobilization of the urethra to the external sphincter, and ventral corporotomies. Recurrent VC was suspected by a characteristic 'hunched-over' appearance and resistance to lifting the glans cephalad (Figure), and confirmed in all cases by artificial erection intraoperatively.

RESULTS

58 of the 77 patients with follow up had VC straightened. Recurrent VC was diagnosed in 26%. It was suspected during this review in another 10% who had recurrent urethroplasty complications which we now know often indicate VC, or urethral plate elevation with no treatment for corporal disproportion. This recurrent VC was objectively measured in nearly half those diagnosed, averaging 52 (30-75). It was diagnosed before puberty in all cases. There was no difference in recurrent VC in those managed with DP alone versus those straightened by DP and/or other maneuvers.

DISCUSSION

The finding that 1 of every 4 patients had recurrent VC after proximal TIP, and that as many as 1 of every 3 might have had that complication, is concerning. During most the study the extent of VC was visually estimated, and most patients were thought to have <45° with no tension on the UP after straightening. We reported 70% of patients operated elsewhere for proximal hypospadias and presenting with urethroplasty complications had recurrent VC ≥ 30° following earlier DP. In that series, in the current patients, and in an earlier report by Braga et al., an intact urethral plate correlated with increased risk for recurrent VC. Despite our improved ability to diagnose recurrent VC, we have not found it in boys who underwent STAG repair with urethral plate transection.

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrent VC after proximal TIP repair occurred in at least 1 of every 4 patients despite DP and/or additional maneuvers to straighten the penis while preserving the urethral plate. Accordingly, we now only perform proximal TIP when there is little (<30°) or no VC.

Using Buck's Fascia as an Integral Covering in Urethroplasty to Restore the Anatomical Structure of the Penis in One-Stage Hypospadias Repair: A Multicenter Chinese Study Comprising 1,386 Surgeries

Objectives: The objective of the study is to investigate the feasibility and efficacy of urethroplasty with a Buck's fascia integral-covering technique (BFIC) to wrap and restore the normal anatomical structure of the penis in one-stage hypospadias surgery. Methods: One-stage surgeries for hypospadias management were performed using BFIC from January 2016 to September 2020 at four high-volume medical centers in China. The technique integrates Buck's fascia with glans wings to mobilize and wrap the urethra and restore penile anatomical relationships. The clinical data, postoperative follow-up data, and complications were recorded, and the results were analyzed. Results: A total of 1,386 patients were included in the study: 1,260 cases of primary hypospadias and 126 cases of re-operations; distal in 382 cases (27.6%), mid-shaft in 639 (46.1%), proximal in 365 (26.3%); tubularized incised plate (TIP) in 748 cases, inlay-graft in 124, onlay-graft in 49, Mathieu in 28, free-tube graft urethroplasty in 406, and 31 of hybrid procedures. One thousand one hundred forty-two patients (82.4%) were found to have penile curvature (>10°) after artificial erection and all corrected by dorsal plication/s or transection of the urethra plate (UP) simultaneously. The median followed-up time was 27 months (6-62). A total of 143 (10.3%) complications were recorded: 114 (9.0%) in the primary operations and 29 (23%) in the re-operations, 15 (3.9%) in distal hypospadias, 61 (9.5%) in mid-shaft, and 67 (18.4%) in proximal. The complication rate in UP preservation and transection was 10.1 and 10.8%, respectively. Of all case complications, there were 73 (5.2%) of fistula, 10 (0.6%) of dehiscence, 22 (1.6%) of meatal stenosis, 21 (1.5%) of stricture, 6 (0.7%) of diverticulum, and resident curvature in 11 cases (1.2%). The overall complication rate in TIP and free-tube procedure was 9.8 and 9.9%, respectively, and fistula occurred in primary TIP of 33 cases (4.9%). Conclusions: Buck's fascia with the glans can be used as an integral covering technique in one-stage distal to proximal hypospadias and primary or re-operative hypospadias repair. It is safe, feasible, and effective for the repair of hypospadias.

Measurement accuracy of 3-Dimensional mapping technologies versus standard goniometry for angle assessment

BACKGROUND

A specific aspect of the hypospadias phenotype that may contribute to long-term outcomes is the presence of ventral penile curvature and the adequacy of its surgical correction. The current gold standard to assess this angle is intraoperative goniometry of an erect penis. 3-dimensional (3D) mapping technologies may overcome the limitations of these traditional methods through their combination of digital image and geometric replication to produce consistent 3D digital forms of a physical structure. The aim of this study is to evaluate the measurement accuracy and reliability of handheld 3D mapping technologies versus standard goniometry for angle assessment in a laboratory setting.

METHODS

Blocks with specified angles (10-45°) were printed using a Zortrax M200 3D printer (±0.2% accuracy). Following the completion of standardized training, blinded participants measured each block angle using a baseline digit goniometer. Additionally, complete digital models of the blocks were created using 3D mapping technologies. Structured light scanning was completed using an Artec Space Spider and Artec Studio 13. Traditional photogrammetry was completed using a Canon Eos Rebel T5i DSLR camera and Agisoft Metashape Pro. Photogrammetry with a 3D camera was completed using the VECTRA H1 and VECTRA Analysis Module. All 3D models were imported into the software Autodesk Inventor in which automated angle measurements through the central plane were obtained. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the accuracy, precision and reliability of each modality using SAS 9.4 software. The reliability of goniometry and each mapping technology was evaluated using two-way random effect models with absolute agreement.

RESULTS

Six 3D printed blocks were evaluated. 5 digital models per block were created using each of the 3 mapping technologies. Inter-rater reliability of goniometry was moderate (ICC 0.76, 95% CI 0.46, 0.92), whereas all mapping technologies demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability: structured light scanning (ICC 0.99; 95% CI 0.999, 0.999); traditional photogrammetry (0.99; 0.99, 0.99); 3D camera (0.99; 0.99, 0.99). Mean angle measurements and standard error for each angle and modality are provided in the table.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated excellent accuracy, precision and reliability of off-the-shelf, handheld 3D mapping technologies and moderate reliability for goniometry when applied to measurements of angulation in a laboratory setting. The described methods developed in the laboratory for optimization of angle analysis from 3D models are an important step toward reliable, reproducible phenotypic analysis of congenital genitourinary conditions in future intraoperative and database development applications.

Plate Objective Scoring Tool (POST); An objective methodology for the assessment of urethral plate in distal hypospadias

BACKGROUND

Estimation of the quality of the urethral plate (UP) seems to be important when assessing postoperative outcomes of hypospadias repair, but its evaluation remains subjective. We developed an objective model aiming to standardize this assessment, proposing a methodology that could be adopted in future studies designed to evaluate outcomes in the treatment of hypospadias.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the inter and intra observer reliability of a method to assess the quality of the urethral plate (UP) in hypospadias (POST - Plate Objective Scoring Tool) based on elements of glans characteristics. The reliability of such scoring methodology was compared to an analog accepted tool: the Glans-Urethral Meatus-Shaft (GMS) score. A secondary goal was to compare some characteristics of the UP in GMS score to POST values; aiming to find the threshold between favorable and unfavorable plates.

METHODS

Data were prospectively obtained from prepubertal boys who underwent primary hypospadias repair between January 2018 and November 2019. Intrinsic elements of the glanular UP (A: distal midline mucocutaneous junction; B: Glanular knob where the mucosal edges of the UP's edge change direction; C: Glanular/coronal junction) were marked and the AB/BC ratio calculated. The "G" and "M" components of the GMS score were measured electronically three times by four different reviewers with variable pediatric urology experience and blinded to each other values. Favorable UP, according to the GMS score was compared to measurements obtained by POST (AB/BC ratio).

RESULTS

84 subjects were enrolled. The POST score had an excellent inter-observer agreement for the evaluation of the UP in distal hypospadias (Kappa = 0.832) while the "G" parameter of the GMS correlated poorly among the observers. The Inter-Class Correlation (ICC) analysis to examine the intra-rater agreement value was 0.914 (95% CI 0.87, 0.95.). AB/BC ratio values ranged from 0.6 to 1.6, with a mean of 1.12. The POST cut-off value for "favorable" UP was 1.2 (AUC = 0.62) 95% CI (0.52-0.84) (sensitivity 80% and specificity 60%).

CONCLUSIONS

The POST score has higher inter-observer reliability and functions favorably when compared to the GMS. In addition, it demonstrated a high intra-observer reliability among observers of variable experience. Our findings suggest that the POST score adds to evaluation of the UP and could be incorporated as an additional criterion to assess outcomes in distal hypospadias repairs.

Urethral fistulae following surgery for scrotal or perineal hypospadias: A 20-year review

INTRODUCTION

Urethral fistulae (UF) following hypospadias surgery can be a frustrating complication with reports of even 15 attempts to close a difficult fistula (Richter 2003). UF occurring in scrotal or perineal hypospadias (SPH) pose a further challenge because of the under-virilised penis.

OBJECTIVE

To review the outcomes of a single surgeon's experience over 20 years of managing UF in SPH. To analyse the traditional approach of fistula closure and three alternative techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent hypospadias surgery for SPH from January 1997 to September 2018 was reviewed. Patients with UF were identified and their data recorded. The techniques of fistula closure were: a-Traditional approach. b Purse-string closure. c. Right angle intersection technique where the skin and urethra are closed at right angles to each other. d Anchoring skin to corpora away from the fistula closure.

RESULTS

32 patients with 41 fistulae were identified. Follow-up ranged from 1 to 18 years. 10/32 (31%) had concomitant meatal stenosis or urethral strictures. The sites of UF were: penoscrotal 19/41 (46%), midpenile 14/41 (34%), coronal or subcoronal in 8/41 (20%). One fistula resolved spontaneously after a single urethral dilatation. 4 patients with a coronal fistula were laid open to the glandular meatus creating a coronal hypospadias, with redo-urethroplasty later (in 2 a buccal graft was used). Of the rest, 29 fistulae were cured after one surgery, while 7 needed two attempts. No patient needed more than two surgeries to close the fistula. The recurrence rates were as follows- Purse-string suture: 10%, Right angle intersection technique: 14.3%, Anchoring skin to corpora: 16.7%, Traditional approach: 21.7%. Although the purse-string suture technique had the lowest recurrence rate, the figures did not reach statistical significance (P-0.95).

CONCLUSION

Urethral fistulae occurring in SPH pose challenges because of the under-virilised penis. A third of patients may have meatal stenosis or urethral strictures which must be identified and dealt with. The three novel techniques we employed helped drive down our recurrence rate. Purse string sutures reduce the weak area to a dot and are an excellent way to deal with small fistulae (<5 mm). Other innovations include offsetting the skin suture line by anchoring it to the penile shaft well away from the fistula repair or closing the fistula and skin at right angle to each other. The fact that no patient needed more than two operations to lose the UF, was gratifying.