Undescended testicle in a child – information and treatment path
A boy's testicles usually descend into the scrotum during fetal development, but sometimes one or both testicles get left behind. The testicles should have descended By 6 months of age.
A undescended testicle is a normal phenomenon
Many children experience what is called undescended testicle (testicle salt)s). This is a completely normal physiological phenomenon caused by an active levator ani muscle.
If the testicle occasionally rises, but can be easily pulled back into the scrotum during a medical examination, the situation is normal. It is not a good idea to pull the testicles at home.
It is also a good sign if the testicle is visible in the scrotum when the child is relaxed, for example: in a warm bath or sauna. In this case, surgical treatment is not required.
When are investigations needed?
If the testicle does not descend even in heat, a medical evaluation is needed. The treatment path depends on the location of the testicle:
The testicle is felt in the groin: The doctor feels the testicle in the inguinal canal or above the scrotum, but it cannot be retracted into the scrotum. This is treated with routine surgery.
The stone is not felt at all: If the testicle cannot be palpated, it is most often done ultrasound examination.
The stone cannot be found on ultrasound: In this case, we will do laparoscopy i.e. laparoscopy. The scan determines whether the testicle is in the abdominal cavity or whether it has atrophied.
Treatment: Surgically returning the testicle to the scrotum
An undescended testicle is treated with surgery under anesthesia to bring the testicle to an optimal, cooler temperature.
A. Day surgery (testicle in the groin)
Measures: Two small incisions are made – one in the groin and one in the scrotum. The tightening tissue around the blood vessels and vas deferens of the testicle is removed, giving the penis more length.
Duration: The surgery takes about 30 minutes.
Homecoming: The child can go home the same day.
B. Testicle located in the abdominal cavity (Two-stage treatment)
If the testicle is in the abdominal cavity, treatment requires two steps to ensure blood circulation:
Step 1: The blood vessel that is constricting the testicle is cut. After this, it is expected 6 months, so that the surrounding replacement blood circulation is strengthened.
2nd stage: A second surgery is performed, in which the testicle is brought into the scrotum with improved blood circulation.
Recovery at home
Pain management: Regular pain medication (paracetamol/ibuprofen) in the first few days.
Wounds: The incisions are usually closed with dissolvable stitches that disappear on their own.
Trammels: Exercise, sports and swimming should generally be avoided about 1-2 weeks depending on age.
Return to everyday life: You can usually return to school or daycare after a few days, depending on your condition.
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