Hypospadias and Disorders of Sex Development
Hypospadias is a congenital condition affecting males, characterized by an abnormal placement of the urethral opening. This condition can lead to various complications, including difficulties with urination, sexual function, and fertility. At Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), the Division of Paediatric Surgery and Paediatric Urology specializes in diagnosing and treating hypospadias, as well as other genital anomalies and disorders of sex development (DSDs).
Understanding Hypospadias
What is Hypospadias?
Hypospadias occurs when the urethra does not fully develop, resulting in the urethral opening being located on the underside of the penis rather than at the tip. The severity of hypospadias can vary, with some cases being mild and others more complex, requiring surgical intervention.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Common symptoms of hypospadias include:
- Abnormal location of the urethral opening
- Curvature of the penis (chordee)
- Difficulty during urination
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination at birth, and further assessments may be conducted to determine the extent of the condition.
Disorders of Sex Development (DSDs)
Definition and Types
Disorders of sex development encompass a range of conditions where there is a discrepancy between chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomical sex. DSDs can manifest in various forms, including:
- Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome: A condition where individuals with XY chromosomes develop female characteristics.
- Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: A genetic disorder affecting adrenal hormone production, leading to ambiguous genitalia.
Clinical Approach at SSMC
The team at SSMC employs a multidisciplinary approach to manage DSDs. This includes collaboration among pediatric surgeons, endocrinologists, geneticists, and psychologists to ensure comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Surgical Interventions for Hypospadias and DSDs
Surgical Techniques
At Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, advanced surgical techniques are utilized to correct hypospadias. These may include:
- Urethroplasty: Reconstruction of the urethra to create a normal urinary channel.
- Glanduloplasty: Surgical correction to reshape the glans penis.
Postoperative Care
Post-surgery, patients receive thorough follow-up care to monitor healing and address any complications. The pediatric urology team provides guidance on postoperative management and long-term outcomes.
Commitment to Excellence in Pediatric Care
Expert Team at SSMC
The Division of Paediatric Surgery and Paediatric Urology at SSMC is staffed by highly qualified professionals who are dedicated to delivering exceptional care. The team includes experienced pediatric surgeons like Dr. Iftikhar Suleman and Dr. Zahid Saqi, who specialize in treating complex conditions related to hypospadias and DSDs.
Advanced Facilities
SSMC is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy. The hospital utilizes cutting-edge technology for both surgical procedures and patient monitoring.
Continuous Education and Training
The department emphasizes ongoing education through its Pediatric Surgery Residency Program, ensuring that future surgeons are well-prepared to handle various pediatric conditions. This commitment to training enhances the overall quality of care provided at SSMC.
Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City stands out as a leading institution for managing hypospadias and disorders of sex development. With its comprehensive services, expert team, and advanced facilities, SSMC ensures that every child receives the highest standard of medical attention in a supportive environment. Families seeking specialized care can trust SSMC for innovative treatments and compassionate support throughout their healthcare journey.
Why choose SSMC?
The Division of Paediatric Surgery & Paediatric Urology at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), Abu Dhabi, hosts a multidisciplinary team comprising American and British board-certified surgeons equipped with the expertise to treat and manage a broad spectrum of paediatric surgical and urological conditions. State-of-the-art paediatric operating rooms, alongside advanced minimally invasive suites, provide the perfect atmosphere for optimal surgical care of our paediatric and neonatal patients. They are equipped with highly advanced, high-definition imaging technology, advanced image capture and routing capabilities in an ergonomically efficient environment. SSMC offers one of the region’s most advanced Neonatal & Paediatric Intensive Care units, with a highly qualified team of health professionals capable of providing premium quality care. Our paediatrics surgeons provide a range of surgical and urological services using minimally invasive approaches, including:
- General paediatric surgery
- Hepatobiliary paediatric surgery
- Pancreatic surgery
- Hernia repair
- Paediatric thoracic surgery, including video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS)
- Neonatal surgery
- Paediatric urology
- Diagnostic and therapeutic upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopies (procedure to view the body internally)
- Diagnostic and therapeutic bronchoscopies (inspection of the lungs and air passages)
- Paediatric vascular access
- Appendectomy (removal of the appendix)
- Fundoplication (surgery to treat stomach acid reflux)
- Ureteric reimplantation (surgery of the ureters)
- Lung resections (partial or full removal of the lung)
- Pyeloplasty (surgical reconstruction of the kidney)
- Endourology (inspection and surgery of the urinary tract)
As we continue to strive to provide the best of care to our patients, our paediatric surgical team works closely in a multidisciplinary approach with other divisions, including Paediatrics, Neonatology, Radiology, and other relevant departments, to provide nationally and regionally renowned care in the management of complex paediatrics surgical conditions
