WHAT TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR

If considering surgery for your son's hypospadias, parents should ask the surgeon the following questions:

Ask the doctor the following:

1. Is my child healthy now? Is surgery medically necessary or is it more elective?
2. How can hypospadias and hypospadias surgery impact my child's physical and mental health?
3. Who is my treating team? Do I have access to a multidisciplinary team (ex. endocrinologist, psychologist/therapist)?
4. What is the best timing for surgery?
5. How many hypospadias repair surgeries have you performed? What is your success rate? Can you provide any before and after photos or testimonials from previous patients?
6. Surgical technique: What surgical technique do you recommend for my child's specific case of hypospadias? Can you explain the procedure and its potential risks and benefits?
7. Complication rates: What is your complication rate associated with this type of surgery? What specific complications should we be aware of, and how do you address and manage them?
8. Tracking success rates: How do you track your own success rates with hypospadias repair? Do you keep records of outcomes and complications? Can you share any statistics or data regarding your patients' surgical outcomes?
9. Anesthesia and pain management: What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery, and how will my child's pain be managed during and after the procedure?
10. Recovery and follow-up care: What is the typical recovery process for hypospadias surgery? How long will it take for my child to heal? Will any follow-up procedures or appointments be necessary?
11. Potential long-term effects: Are there any potential long-term effects or considerations related to the surgery? How might it impact my child's urinary and sexual function as they grow older? Who will be his physician once he is an adult?
12. Alternatives and second opinions: Are there any alternative treatment options available for my child's hypospadias? Would you recommend seeking a second opinion from another specialist? Which specialist would you recommend?
13. Do patients and families ever regret surgery? Will my son's new urethra function as well as the one he has now?



By asking these questions, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the surgeon's experience, approach, success rates, and available options. This information can help them make informed decisions and ensure the best possible care for their child.

*** This is not a complete list of questions to ask, each child's case may vary, please do your own research and seek alternative opinions and advice.