Our Summary

This research paper focuses on a condition in male infants called undescended testis, where the testes don’t move into their usual position in the scrotum by six months of age. The paper emphasizes that this condition should be treated as early as possible, ideally by the time the child is one year old. It also brings attention to the fact that this condition can also occur later in life, known as acquired undescended testes. This latter condition often goes unnoticed and untreated because older boys typically don’t have physical exams as regularly as infants. The research urges for active search and immediate treatment of this condition once diagnosed.

FAQs

  1. What is the recommended age for treatment of undescended testis in a term born boy?
  2. When should acquired undescended testes be treated?
  3. Why might the diagnosis of acquired undescended testes be deferred in older boys?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about undescended testicle surgery is to closely follow post-operative care instructions. This may include keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding strenuous activities for a certain period of time, and taking any prescribed medications as directed. It’s important to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the best possible outcome. If any concerns or complications arise, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor for guidance.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended undescended testicle surgery include:

  1. Infants with undescended testes persisting beyond the 6th month of life.
  2. Older boys with acquired undescended testes, where the condition may have been overlooked or neglected.
  3. Patients with a diagnosis of undescended testicle who are at risk for complications such as infertility or increased risk of testicular cancer.
  4. Patients who have failed non-surgical treatments or interventions to bring the testicle into the scrotum.
  5. Patients with persistent pain or discomfort related to the undescended testicle.

Timeline

Before undescended testicle surgery:

  • Patient may be diagnosed with an undescended testicle during a routine physical examination or during infancy
  • Patient may undergo monitoring and observation to see if the testicle descends on its own
  • Patient may be prescribed hormone therapy to stimulate testicle descent
  • Patient may be advised to undergo surgery if the testicle does not descend on its own by a certain age

After undescended testicle surgery:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to bring the undescended testicle down into the scrotum
  • Patient may experience post-operative pain and discomfort
  • Patient may be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a certain period of time
  • Patient may require follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and check for any complications
  • Patient may experience improved fertility and reduced risk of complications such as testicular cancer in the future.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and benefits of undescended testicle surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of the surgery in bringing the testicle to a scrotal position?
  3. What is the recovery process like after the surgery?
  4. Are there any potential complications or long-term effects of the surgery?
  5. How soon after the surgery can normal activities be resumed?
  6. Will there be any restrictions or limitations on physical activity after the surgery?
  7. What follow-up care will be needed after the surgery?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options to surgery for an undescended testicle?
  9. How soon should the surgery be performed after diagnosis of an undescended testicle?
  10. Are there any specific factors that may impact the success of the surgery in my case?

Reference

Authors: Haid B, Rein P, Oswald J. Journal: Eur Urol Focus. 2017 Apr;3(2-3):155-157. doi: 10.1016/j.euf.2017.05.009. Epub 2017 Jun 3. PMID: 28753808