Orchidopexy: definition, procedures, risks, etc. • hello healthy

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Definition

What is orchidopexy?

Orchidopexy is an operation to lower the testes into the scrotum. Testicles form on the abdomen of a boy while they are still in the womb. The testes usually descend into the scrotum by the 35th week of pregnancy. Sometimes, the testicles do not descend normally.

What are the benefits of undergoing orchidopexy surgery?

Surgery can prevent your child from developing serious complications. Your child's fertility will increase and it will be easier to check for problems with the testicles.

When do my children need to undergo orchidopexy?

Orchidopexy surgery is required if the testicles do not descend on their own until the baby is 6 months old. If the testicles remain undescended, there are possible health risks, such as:

trauma (torsion)

hernia if the lump in the intestine passes through the same opening as the testicle

Low fertility is due to a higher temperature in the stomach compared to the scrotum, which affects sperm production in the testes

risk of testicular cancer

low self-esteem due to appearance problems

Precautions & warnings

What do I need to know before my child takes orchidopexy?

There are several possible reasons why the testicles do not descend into the scrotum. However, usually the cause is unknown. Orchidopexy surgery is performed when the testicles do not descend by themselves after the baby is 6 months old. The surgery is done to avoid health problems. It lasts a day and your child can go home the same day.

Are there any alternatives to surgery?

If the testicles do not descend into the scrotum after 6 months of age, there is no alternative to surgery.

Process

What should my child do before undergoing orchidopexy?

Your child will be given preoperative instructions, such as whether to eat preoperatively. In general, your child should fast 6 hours before the procedure begins. Your child may be allowed to drink fluids a few hours before surgery.

How is the orchidopexy process?

The operation is usually performed under general anesthesia and lasts for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. The surgeon will make an incision in the groin and a small incision in the scrotum. The testicles will be lowered into the scrotum. If the surgeon finds the small, non-functioning testicles, these will be removed.

What should my child do after undergoing orchidopexy?

Your child is allowed to go home on the same day and can return to school after 1 week. Your child is prohibited from playing sports or riding bicycles for 6 weeks.

Complications

What complications can occur?

As with any procedure, there are several possible risks. Ask the surgeon to explain the risk to your child. Possible complications to common procedures can include reactions to anesthesia, bleeding or blood clots (deep vein thrombosis, DVT). In orchidopexy surgery, specific complications that can occur include:

the appearance of a lump under the incision wound

shrinking testicles

obstruction of sperm from passing to the penis

the testicles can return to their original position

decreased fertility in the lowered testicles.

You can minimize the risk of complications for your child by following the doctor's instructions before surgery, such as fasting and stopping certain medications.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.