Caudal versus penile block and urethrocutaneous fistula formation following hypospadias repair in children <2 years: a multicenter randomized clinical trial

This multicenter randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the incidence of urethrocutaneous fistula (UCF) formation following hypospadias repair in children under 2 years old, specifically evaluating the effectiveness of caudal versus penile blocks. The study found no significant difference in UCF rates between the two anesthesia techniques, although the caudal block was associated with lower opioid use and pain scores. The authors caution that the exploratory nature of the findings, due to incomplete enrollment and follow-up, limits the conclusions that can be drawn.