Our Summary

The researchers were able to successfully perform a testicle transplant on an 18-year-old male using a surgical robot. The patient had a single testicle located within his abdomen, a condition known as cryptorchidism. The surgical procedure involved removing the testicle from the abdomen, followed by a reattachment in the scrotum. The goal was to preserve the testicle’s hormone-producing function and the operation didn’t involve any biopsy due to the risk it could pose to the organ. The patient was discharged from hospital a week after the surgery. After a year, the transplanted testicle remained stable and normal hormone levels were maintained. This suggests that using a surgical robot for this type of operation could be a viable option.

FAQs

  1. What is the condition known as cryptorchidism?
  2. How does the surgical procedure for a testicle transplant work?
  3. Can a surgical robot be a viable option for undescended testicle surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

After undescended testicle surgery, it is important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully. This may include avoiding strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for a period of time, taking prescribed medications as directed, and keeping the surgical area clean and dry. It is also essential to attend follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and ensure optimal recovery. If you experience any unusual symptoms or complications, such as excessive pain, swelling, or infection, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider immediately. Taking good care of yourself after surgery can help promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended undescended testicle surgery are those with cryptorchidism, a condition where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum during fetal development. Surgery is usually recommended for patients with undescended testicles in order to prevent potential complications such as infertility, testicular cancer, and hormonal imbalances. In some cases, surgery may also be recommended for patients with retractile testicles, where the testicles move back and forth between the scrotum and the abdomen.

In the case of the 18-year-old male who underwent a testicle transplant using a surgical robot, he had a single testicle located within his abdomen due to cryptorchidism. This surgery was recommended to preserve the testicle’s hormone-producing function and to prevent potential complications associated with an undescended testicle. The successful outcome of the surgery suggests that using a surgical robot for this type of operation could be a viable option for patients with similar conditions.

Timeline

  • Before surgery: The patient likely experienced symptoms such as infertility, increased risk of testicular cancer, and potential hormonal imbalances due to the undescended testicle. The patient would have undergone consultations with urologists and surgeons to discuss the risks and benefits of surgery.

  • Day of surgery: The patient would have been prepped for surgery, given anesthesia, and the surgical robot would have been used to remove the testicle from the abdomen and reattach it in the scrotum.

  • After surgery: The patient would have stayed in the hospital for monitoring and recovery. Pain medication and antibiotics may have been prescribed to manage post-operative pain and prevent infection. The patient would have been advised to avoid strenuous activities and follow-up appointments would have been scheduled to monitor the healing process.

  • One week post-surgery: The patient would have been discharged from the hospital and instructed on how to care for the incision site at home. It is important for the patient to follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing.

  • One year post-surgery: The patient’s transplanted testicle remained stable and hormone levels were normal, indicating the success of the surgery. Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the long-term effects of the surgery and ensure the patient’s continued health and well-being.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with undescended testicle surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of this type of surgery, particularly when using a surgical robot?
  3. Will the surgery affect my fertility or hormone levels?
  4. What is the recovery process like after undescended testicle surgery?
  5. How long will I need to wait before resuming normal activities, such as exercise or sexual activity?
  6. Will I need any follow-up appointments or monitoring after the surgery?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of following the surgery?
  8. What alternative treatment options are available if surgery is not recommended or successful?
  9. How experienced is the surgical team in performing undescended testicle surgeries, particularly with the use of a surgical robot?
  10. Are there any specific precautions or steps I need to take before the surgery to ensure the best possible outcome?

Reference

Authors: Chao BW, Shakir NA, Hyun GS, Levine JP, Zhao LC. Journal: Urology. 2022 Jan;159:255. doi: 10.1016/j.urology.2021.09.020. Epub 2021 Oct 8. PMID: 34627870