Name of the Procedure:

Exploration for Undescended Testis
Also known as Orchiopexy, Testicular Exploration

Summary

In this procedure, a surgeon locates and repositions a testicle that has not descended into the scrotum. This is often performed on infants or young children but can sometimes be necessary in older patients.

Purpose

Addresses the condition of an undescended testis (cryptorchidism). The goal is to move the testis into the scrotum to reduce the risk of future complications such as infertility, testicular cancer, or hernias.

Indications

• Absence of one or both testicles from the scrotum.
• Diagnosed during a physical exam or imaging studies.
• Typically recommended for boys aged 6 months to 2 years.

Preparation

• Pre-operative blood and urine tests.
• Ultrasound or MRI to locate the testis.
• Fasting after midnight before the surgery.
• Adjustments to routine medications as advised by the doctor.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered.
2. Incision: A small cut is made in the groin or scrotal area.
3. Exploration: The surgeon locates the undescended testis.
4. Repositioning: The testis is brought down into the scrotum and fixed in place, often using sutures.
5. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or surgical glue.

Duration

Approximately 1-2 hours.

Setting

Typically performed in a hospital or surgical center.

Personnel

• Pediatric or urological surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Reaction to anesthesia
• Damage to surrounding tissues or structures
• Rarely, testicular atrophy or retraction

Benefits

• Proper placement of the testis in the scrotum.
• Reduced risks of infertility and testicular cancer.
• Improved appearance and symmetry of the scrotum.
• Benefits are usually realized immediately after recovery.

Recovery

• Observation in the recovery room until anesthesia wears off.
• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Instructions to limit physical activity for 1-2 weeks.
• Follow-up appointment to monitor healing and testicular position.

Alternatives

• Hormonal therapy (less common and less effective).
• Watchful waiting in certain cases (typically not recommended beyond infant age).

Patient Experience

• Patients will be under general anesthesia and will not feel pain during the procedure.
• Post-surgery discomfort managed with pain relief medications.
• Swelling and bruising in the groin area are common but should subside within a few days.
• Full recovery typically within a few weeks, with minimal long-term discomfort.