Doctor Nguyen Duc Tuan, Head of Pediatric Surgery at Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City, stated that the boy's urethral opening was displaced, about 4 mm from the glans, with a urethral defect approximately 1,5 cm long. Doctors diagnosed Bao with penile hypospadias, a common congenital defect in boys. Without early intervention, this condition can lead to underdeveloped foreskin, penile curvature, and affect reproductive health.

Doctor Tuan performed reconstructive surgery using the Duplay technique to rebuild the defective urethral segment. The surgical team then repositioned the urethral opening to the tip of the glans, its normal anatomical position, and reshaped the glans for the patient.

Bao's health stabilized, and he was discharged after 5 days. Doctors provided parents with instructions for proper home care. A follow-up appointment one week later confirmed his stable condition.

Doctor Tuan (far right) and the pediatric surgery team performing reconstructive surgery for Bao's hypospadias. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Doctor Tuan noted that many parents delay treating hypospadias because their child can still urinate. However, he advises against prolonged delay. The ideal age for this surgery is one to three years, as healing capabilities are strong, allowing for full recovery before the child starts school and preventing potential self-consciousness when interacting with peers.

Parents should bring their child for an early examination if they notice abnormalities such as the urethral opening not being at the tip of the glans, a deviated or weak urine stream, penile curvature, or an incompletely closed foreskin.

Gian Don

*Character's name has been changed