Question:

My child is about to undergo a surgical procedure called urethomeatoplasty. This is not the typical surgical treatment I have found mentioned, rather it involves general anesthesia. Can you tell me exactly what the procedure involves so we can be prepared?

Thanks.

Answer:

Urethromeatoplasty may mean different things to different people. Usually a “meatoplasty” or “meatotomy” refers to a minor surgical procedure to enlargen the size of the hole on the tip of the penis. If the tip is too small then a child can have a deviated urinary stream or painful voiding. Sometimes this can be done in the office under local anesthesia. Sometimes, however, this needs to be done under general anesthesia if a child is older or is too apprehensive for an office procedure. Once the hole is made bigger, some stiches may be placed to help everything heal properly. Usually a child is able to void without difficulty after the procedure. There may be some burning on urination, but most have minor pain only.

For more information:

Go to the Urinary and Genital Disorders (Children) health topic.