Progress of surgery for cryptorchidism
Through an inguinal incision of 3–4 cm, the testicle and spermatic cord are isolated, the accompanying hernial sac is separated (90% of patients have it), the cord is mobilized to a sufficient length, and the testicle is lowered into the scrotum without tension, where it is fixed in the subcutaneous pocket. For a short cord, a staged Fowler-Stevens operation is used. Scrotal swelling goes away in 1–2 weeks; Control ultrasound confirms the position and blood flow of the testicle.
Indications
- cryptorchidism - undescended testicle into the scrotum (the operation is optimal at 6–18 months, but can be performed later);
- retractile and ectopic testicle with developmental disorders;
- testicular torsion - emergency fixation after untwisting and preventive fixation of the second testicle;
- habitual (intermittent) torsion.
Why is it important to operate on time?
The testicle outside the scrotum is at a higher temperature, which disrupts spermatogenesis and increases the risk of tumors by 3–8 times. Early orchiopexy preserves fertility and makes monitoring easier. With torsion, the clock counts: after 6 hours of ischemia, the testicle often dies, so if there is sudden pain in the scrotum, immediate surgery is needed.
