Undescended Testicles

What is an undescended testicle?

An undescended testicle is when the testicle of a male has not descended into the correct location in the scrotum.

How does an undescended testicle occur?

As a baby boy is developing in the mother's belly, the testicles develop near the kidneys. The testicles travel down into the scrotum between 28 and 40 weeks of gestation. At birth, 2 to 3 percent of boys will have one testicle that is not in the scrotum. The final descent of the testis may take up to six months after birth, but usually occurs within three months of birth.

What are the signs and symptoms of an undescended testicle?

Boys generally do not have symptoms associated with an undescended testicle. It is discovered during a physical exam either after birth or during a well-child check. Occasionally, a caregiver may notice that some or all of the scrotum seems "empty" or underdeveloped.

How may an undescended testicle affect a child?

Future fertility: It is important to preserve the sperm in the undescended testicle. Surgically bringing the testicle into the scrotum can increase future fertility potential.

Risk of testicular cancer: Although rare, boys who have an undescended testicle are at a slightly higher risk of developing a testicular cancer. If a testicle is left in a position where it cannot be felt, routine monthly self-testicular examination cannot be done increasing the young man's risk of advanced testicular cancer before being recognized.

How is an undescended testicle corrected?

If the testicle is not felt in the scrotum by 6 months of age, our team in the Division of Urology will recommend surgery. This problem is corrected by a procedure called an "orchiopexy" in the operating room with general anesthesia. Generally, a small incision is made in the groin and in the scrotum. The testicle is pulled down and placed in a small pouch in the scrotum and attached with stitches.

For procedures that are done in the operating room, your child will be given a specific surgery date and arrival time by the outpatient surgery center. You will be instructed on when your child may need to stop eating or drinking prior to the procedure. After arriving at the surgery center, you will be placed in a private, pre-op surgery room. At this time, you will have an opportunity to ask the surgery team any questions prior to the procedure. When ready, your child will be escorted to the operating room suite by the surgery team. After the surgery is completed, your doctor will speak to you about the procedure and answer any questions. You will then be able to stay with your child until he is ready to be taken home.

What happens after an orchiopexy?

After correction of this problem, a nurse will provide instructions for any care or activity restrictions needed after surgery. You will be given instructions on how and when you should call the doctor if concerns arise. Your child will have a follow-up visit in the Urology Clinic after the surgery to make sure that everything has healed as expected.