Chordee definition
Chordee is a congenital (present at birth) downward curvature of the PENIS. Chordee results from extra connective tissue that contracts the ventral surface of the penis, pulling the tip of the penis downward. Chordee typically occurs in conjunction with HYPOSPADIAS, a CONGENITAL ANOMALY in which the opening of the URETHRA (the meatus) is on the underside of the penis rather than at the tip. Chordee may be apparent only during ERECTION or may contract the penis significantly enough to prevent normal URINATION. Mild chordee that does not interfere with urination or SEXUAL INTERCOURSE does not require treatment. For more severe chordee, surgery to release the connective tissue and, if necessary, to correct the hypospadias relieves the curvature.
See also CIRCUMCISION; PEYRONIE’S DISEASE; PHIMOSIS; SURGERY BENEFIT AND RISK ASSESSMENT.
