Our Summary

This research aimed to find out if a less-invasive surgical method for removing undescended testicles, used in dogs, cats, and horses, could also work in pigs. 284 pigs, each with one undescended testicle, underwent the surgery on a farm. The procedure involved making a cut over a specific area and locating the undescended testicle for removal. The testicle was then guided out of the body through two rings and the cut. Most of the undescended testicles were found in the abdomen, while a smaller number were found in the inguinal region. In none of the pigs did the surgery cause any damage to the abdominal cavity or enlarge the rings. However, in some pigs, a structure attached to the testicle was thin and broke when pulled, requiring some additional maneuvering. In two cases, the undescended testicle could not be located. All surgeries were completed within 6-12 minutes, and a few pigs died within two days post-surgery. There were no major complications during or after the surgery. The results suggest that this surgical method is highly effective and could be used as the main approach for this issue in pigs, just like in dogs, cats, and horses.

FAQs

  1. What is the less-invasive surgical method for removing undescended testicles in pigs?
  2. Were there any complications or issues encountered during the surgical method for undescended testicle removal in pigs?
  3. How effective and safe is this surgical method for removing undescended testicles in pigs?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about undescended testicle surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. This may include keeping the surgical area clean and dry, avoiding strenuous activities, and taking any prescribed medications as directed. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with the doctor to monitor progress and address any concerns. By following these guidelines, patients can help ensure a successful recovery and optimal outcomes from the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended undescended testicle surgery are those who have a condition known as cryptorchidism, where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum during fetal development. This condition can increase the risk of testicular cancer, infertility, and other health problems. Surgery is often recommended to correct this issue and bring the testicle(s) into the scrotum to reduce the risk of complications.

Timeline

  • Before surgery: The patient would likely have been diagnosed with an undescended testicle during a physical examination, ultrasound, or other imaging tests. The patient may have experienced discomfort or pain in the affected area, and the undescended testicle could potentially lead to complications such as infertility or an increased risk of testicular cancer. The patient and their healthcare provider would have discussed the risks and benefits of surgery to correct the issue.

  • Day of surgery: The patient would have prepared for surgery by fasting and possibly receiving anesthesia. The surgical team would have performed the less-invasive procedure to locate and remove the undescended testicle, taking care to avoid damaging surrounding structures. The surgery would have been completed relatively quickly, within 6-12 minutes in this case.

  • After surgery: The patient would have been monitored for any complications or signs of infection post-surgery. They may have experienced some pain or discomfort in the surgical area, which could be managed with pain medication. The patient would have been advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities to allow for proper healing. Follow-up appointments would have been scheduled to ensure that the surgery was successful and that the patient was recovering well.

Overall, the patient would have undergone a relatively quick and minimally invasive procedure to correct the issue of an undescended testicle, with the goal of improving their overall health and well-being.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with undescended testicle surgery in pigs?

  2. How long is the recovery period expected to be for my pig following the surgery?

  3. Will my pig need any special post-operative care or medication?

  4. What is the success rate of this surgical method for removing undescended testicles in pigs?

  5. Are there any alternative treatment options available for undescended testicles in pigs?

  6. How will you monitor my pig’s progress after the surgery?

  7. What signs should I look out for that may indicate a complication or problem following the surgery?

  8. Will my pig experience any long-term effects or complications as a result of having an undescended testicle removed?

  9. How soon after the surgery can my pig resume normal activities and exercise?

  10. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should implement for my pig following the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Scollo A, Martelli P, Borri E, Mazzoni C. Journal: Vet Rec. 2016 Jun 11;178(24):609. doi: 10.1136/vr.103592. Epub 2016 Apr 6. PMID: 27053253