Health-related quality of life in men with corrected hypospadias: An explorative study

ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of men with a corrected hypospadias in comparison to circumcised controls. Furthermore, determinants of HRQoL were examined.Patients and methodsIn a cross-sectional study, HRQoL of 45 men with corrected hypospadias (mean age: 26.2 years +/− 5.1) was compared with a control group of 46 circumcised men (mean age: 25.5 years +/− 4.9). Participants answered three questionnaires: The Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 item questionnaire (SF-36), the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and the Penile Perception Score (PPS).ResultsPhysical and mental dimensions of HRQoL were not impaired among men with corrected hypospadias if compared to circumcised men. Neither socio-demographic and medical variables nor erectile function (EF) predicted HRQoL. However, a negative genital self-perception (PPS) and a lower orgasmic function (OF) were risk factors for an impaired mental HRQoL.ConclusionsOur data suggest that the HRQoL of adult hypospadias patients is comparable to that of circumcised men. However, patients should be supported in developing a positive genital self-perception, because poor genital self-perception correlated with an impaired mental HRQoL. Since studies with non-operated men suggest that some adapt well to their penile condition, further studies should also include non-operated hypospadias.