“Should we correct hypospadias during childhood?” A question of facts and values

Wirmer et al.[1] report on 81 patients (15-43 y/o, Mage = 19.7) who underwent hypospadias surgery before age 2, stating 90% “were satisfied with early hypospadias surgery,” with decisional regret (DR) in 21% (14.8% mild; 6.2% moderate). Dismissing DR classifications as misleading,1 they conclude their findings “support the current practice of operating hypospadias in early childhood.” We commend the authors for i nvestigating patient, not only parent, attitudes. But it is premature to answer “Yes” to their broader question: “Should we correct hypospadias during childhood?” “Should” implies an ethical evaluation involving facts and values.
Source: Journal of Pediatric Urology - Category: Urology & Nephrology Authors: Tags: Letter to the Editor Source Type: research