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Medical Encyclopedia

Encyclopedia -> Disease -> E -> Epispadias

Epispadias

Causes and Risks:

Epispadias occurs in one of three forms. The urethra may open on top of the head of the penis; the entire urethra may be open the full length of the penis, or the entire urethra may be open with the bladder opening on the abdominal wall. A similar condition can exist in females, but this is rare.

Prevention: There is no known prevention.

Symptoms:

  • any opening on the top of the penis from which urine drains
  • an opening along the entire length on the top of the penis

Signs and Tests:

Radiologic (IVP) and ultrasound evaluation of the urogenital system (kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra, and genitalia) is usually necessary to evaluate the extent of the defect and uncover other abnormalities.

Treatment:

Surgical repair of epispadias is recommended. Leakage of urine (incontinence) is not uncommon and may require a second operation.

Prognosis:

Surgical repair generally results in both continence (the ability to control the flow of urine) and a good cosmetic outcome.

Complications:

Persistent urinary incontinence can occur in some people even after multiple operations.

Call your health care provider if you notice any abnormalities of your child’s genitalia.

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