Chordee

== Chordee ==

Chordee is a medical condition characterized by a downward curvature of the penis, typically evident during an erection. This condition is often associated with hypospadias, a congenital defect where the opening of the urethra is located on the underside of the penis rather than at the tip.

Causes

Chordee can be caused by several factors, including:

• Congenital abnormalities: Chordee is often present at birth and may be associated with other congenital conditions such as hypospadias.
• Scar tissue: The presence of fibrous tissue can cause the penis to curve.
• Trauma: Injury to the penis can result in scar tissue formation, leading to chordee.
• Peyronie's disease: This condition involves the development of fibrous plaques within the penile tissue, causing curvature.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of chordee is the noticeable curvature of the penis, particularly during an erection. Other symptoms may include:

• Difficulty with sexual intercourse
• Pain during erections
• Psychological distress due to the appearance of the penis

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of chordee typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider. In some cases, imaging studies such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to assess the extent of the curvature and identify any underlying causes.

Treatment

Treatment for chordee depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of associated abnormalities such as hypospadias. Options include:

• Surgical correction: Surgery is often required to straighten the penis and correct any associated abnormalities. This may involve the release of fibrous tissue, grafting, or other reconstructive techniques.
• Non-surgical methods: In mild cases, non-surgical methods such as penile traction therapy may be considered.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with chordee is generally good, especially when the condition is treated surgically. Most patients experience significant improvement in penile curvature and function following treatment.

See also

• Hypospadias
• Peyronie's disease
• Congenital disorder
• Urology