Single stage urethroplasty for perineal hypospadias in a horse: A case report

Abstract

Within the veterinary world, data regarding the surgical management of hypospadias is lacking. Reports within equines have documented resective phallectomy procedures rather than urethral reconstruction. This case report documents the first ever urethroplasty for an equine hypospadias, performed by a consultant paediatric surgeon. The urethroplasty was achieved by applying the same surgical principles mastered from paediatric urology to a horse. The indication for surgery was contact dermatitis of the hind-leg, which impaired the thoroughbred foal's racing potential. A single stage urethroplasty was performed, during which the wide urethral plate was tubularised in two layers and the urethral meatus was successfully relocated distally to open upon the glans. The urethroplasty was covered with dartos fascia and the penile shaft skin and prepuce were reconstructed. Post-operatively, urine flowed cranially and the contact dermatitis resolved. Minor superficial wound dehiscence was observed which was managed conservatively and self-resolved. Follow-up at 3 years confirmed the horse continues to void from the re-sited meatus without complication and went on to have an illustrious career within horseracing. We have documented the first reconstructive urethroplasty for hypospadias within a horse, achieved by adopting the surgical techniques normally implemented within paediatric urology with good functionality.