The timing of elective surgery on the genitalia of male children with particular reference to undescended testes and hypospadias.

In determining the optimum time for surgery one must consider the child’s general reaction to hospitalization as well as the specific reaction to operation on the genitalia. Several factors may have a direct or indirect effect on the nature and severity of emotional reactions to surgery. Age is one important factor but other variables include interactions within the family, the coping ability of the child and his family, including the effect of previous traumatic experiences, and the adequacy of the child’s preparation for hospitalization, surgery, and follow-up.