Definition
Chordee causes a sharp curve of the penis. It is most apparent during an erection.
| Male Reproductive System |
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Causes
Chordee develops before birth. It may be caused by tight skin on the bottom of the penis or problems with the urethra. The urethra is the tube that allows urine to pass out of the body. Chordee may develop if the tube is too short or there is thick tissue around the tube.
Diagnosis
The doctor can often see chordee during a physical exam. A specialist may do further tests. Mild chordee may not be found until later in childhood.
Treatment
Mild chordee may not need treatment. The doctor will check for any future problems during regular exams.
Severe chordee may need surgery. Steps to straighten the penis may include:
- Remove tissue that is causing curve
- Make the longer and shorter sides of the penis equal in length
- Lengthen the urethra if the urethra is short
RESOURCES
Healthy Children—American Academy of Pediatrics https://www.healthychildren.org
Urology Care Foundation http://www.urologyhealth.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Canadian Urological Association http://www.cua.org
Health Canada https://www.canada.ca
References
Hypospadias. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/hypospadias . Accessed September 2, 2020.
Hypospadias/chordee. Cincinnati Children's website. Available at: https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/h/hypospadias. Accessed September 2, 2020.
Montag S, Palmer L. Abnormalities of penile curvature: chordee and penile torsion. ScientificWorldJournal. 2011;11:1470-1478.
Snodgrass W. Management of penile curvature in children. Curr Opin Urol. 2008;18(4):431-435.
Tekgul S, Dogan HS, Kocvara R, et al; European Society for Paediatric Urology and European Association of Urology (ESPU/EAU). Guidelines on Paediatric Urology. EAU 2017 Mar.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Adrienne Carmack, MD
- Review Date: 09/2020
- Update Date: 09/03/2020