| selected terms: 145 | page 5 of 5 |
It is sometimes inherited. Other than inherited cases, the cause is usually not known. Hypospadias may cause deviation of the urinary stream so that the boy is forced to sit to urinate. Additionally, sexual function may be hampered by the location of the urethral opening or by the bend in the penis. Surgery to correct the problem is usually successful. When possible, these operations are best accomplished between 6 and 18 months between of age. Following surgery, most boys have normal function and a good cosmetic result. Long-term studies suggest that these boys do well emotionally as well. Fertility and potency would be expected to be normal after repair. See Columbia Medical School.