Specialties & Conditions Chordee
Chordee
Specialty
Chordee is a condition where the penis curves in a downward direction. The condition typically develops while the child is still in the womb. It is sometimes associated with hypospadias, a condition where the end of the urethra is not located at the tip of the penis. Severe cases of chordee can impact the function of the penis, including urinary and reproductive functionality.
What Is the Treatment for Chordee?
At Lurie Children’s, the Division of Urology treats chordee and related conditions. A highly experienced urologist will conduct a physical exam to evaluate the severity of the chordee and establish if any other conditions, such as hypospadias, are present. Your urologist will work with you to create a treatment plan that best fits the needs of your family and your child. Depending on the severity of chordee, the urologist may recommend a surgical procedure to correct the curvature of the penis.
If surgical correction is recommended, it is typically an outpatient procedure done under general anesthesia. Sometimes, simply repositioning the penile skin is all that is necessary to correct the curvature. At other times, stitches are placed underneath the skin on the top side of the penis (plication) to straighten it. In severe cases of chordee, grafting (a patch) on the underside of the penis may be necessary.