What is Undescended Testis (Cryptorchidism)?

Has your little one been diagnosed with Undescended Testis? Are doctors suggesting surgery as undescended testes treatment in children? Parents, don't be scared.

This medical condition is also known as cryptorchidism(crypto-hidden, orchid-testes). It is one of the most common disorders affecting 1-4% of newborn babies, especially premature ones.

Testicles are an important part of the male reproductive system. Before birth, the testis falls into a skin sac called the scrotum that is located below the penis. When it fails to move down to the scrotum from the belly, the condition is called Undescended testicles (UDT).

Looking for Orchidopexy Surgery for Undescended Testis, Laparoscopic Orchidopexy surgery, and other treatments for your little one? Follow this blog to learn more about undescended testes doctor in Bangalore and its treatment. 

Symptoms of Undescended Testis in Infants and Children

Diagnosing undescended testis in the early stages can make all the changes for your little one. Therefore, parents, if you notice signs or have concerns, don’t wait; check for these symptoms. Consult the best undescended testes doctor in Bangalore to get the best care for your child.  

• Check if the scrotum is empty, whether there is one testis or both are absent, or its size. 
• Pain in and around your scrotum and/or testes area. 

Expert Treatment for Undescended Testis in Bengaluru

Surgical Approaches: Orchidopexy and Laparoscopic Surgery

I. Laparoscopic Orchidopexy Surgery (The gold standard)

Sometimes, the testicle is not at the surface level and can be identified in physical examination by the best undescended testes doctor in Bangalore. In such cases, if it is located at a deeper level in the tummy or abdomen area, then Laparoscopic surgery is advised. 

Thus, a special, tiny camera and tools are used to identify and locate the testicles in your little one. With this, the testicle(s) are found and freed from nearby tissue. They are then repositioned into the scrotum area and secured there.

II. Orchidopexy or Orchiopexy

This surgery is usually a quick and successful procedure. It includes two small cuts. One cut near the groin to find the testicle, and another cut in the scrotum to place the testicle in it. It is mostly a same-day surgical procedure. Thus, your little one can go home the same day or the next day. 

Such surgery is carried out to treat hernia associated with the testes, injury to the testis, etc.

III. Hormonal Treatment

Hormonal treatment for an undescended testicle may be considered. However, the success rate is below 10% when retractile testicles are excluded from the treatment groups.

Hormonal therapy is contraindicated in children with a clinically visible hernia. Most undescended testes are associated with a hernia that must be repaired.

Best Doctor for Undescended Testis Surgery in Bengaluru

At NU Hospitals, we understand that children need not just treatment; they need that dedicated care and attention. We have the best paediatric urologists in Bangalore, who offer expert diagnosis and tailored treatment for urological conditions in children.

With a dedicated paediatric ward, child-friendly staff, and world-class infrastructure, we make sure your little one is always feeling safe and comfortable.

 

Risks of Not Treating Undescended Testicles

Undescended testes, if treated early, can have little to no effect on your child's health. However, it can lead to a range of health concerns if not addressed early. 

1. Increased Risk of Testicular Cancer

Children with undescended testicles are at a higher risk of developing testicular cancer later in life. This cancer most often affects males between the ages of 15 and 35. 

However, undescended testes treatment in children (orchiopexy) may help reduce this risk and allow for easier self-examination in the future.

2. Risk of Testicular Torsion

Testicular torsion is a painful condition where the spermatic cord twists, cutting off blood flow to the testicle. If not treated immediately, it can lead to permanent damage or loss of the testicle. 

Children with undescended testicles are more vulnerable to this emergency.

3. Inguinal Hernia

Children with undescended testicles have a higher chance of developing an inguinal hernia. It is a condition where part of the intestine bulges through the abdominal wall near the groin, requiring surgical correction.

4. Hormonal Imbalance (Hypogonadism)

The testicles play a key role in producing the hormone testosterone. The hormone is responsible for puberty, muscle development, body hair, deepening of the voice, and other male features. 

Undescended testicles may affect testosterone production and lead to delayed development for your child over time.

5. Risk of Infertility

Higher temperatures inside the abdomen or groin area can impair testicular function. When one or both testicles remain undescended, it may affect sperm production. This may increase the risk of infertility, especially when both testicles are affected.

6. Impact on Self-Esteem and Body Image

As boys grow older, visible differences or concerns related to their development can affect self-confidence, body image, and emotional well-being. 

Hence, with early treatment, you can make sure your little one does not have to go through it. 

• Benefits of Early Treatment 

Orchiopexy will help to reduce the chances of infertility. Also, as your little one grows, it makes self-exams for testicular cancer easier.  

• Reduced Risk of Injury

If a testicle is located in the groin, it is more prone to injury from everyday activities like playing, wearing seat belts, or tight clothing. Orchiopexy helps protect it by moving it safely into the scrotum.. 

• Safe Procedure

Orchiopexy is a routine surgery with a very low risk of complications. In most cases, your little one can go home in a couple of days and recover comfortably with minimal downtime.

When to Consult a Pediatric Urologist for Undescended Testis

In most boys born with this condition, generally, the testes will migrate down to the scrotum on their own. This is seen 2-4 months after the birth of the baby. However, if it doesn’t descend even after 6 months, it is probably the ideal time to visit a paediatric urologist.

Undescended testes treatment in children before the age of 1 may lower the risk of health problems linked to the condition. The earlier the treatment, the better it is for your little one.  

At all the branches of NU Hospitals, including Bangalore, we have expert pediatric urologists who specialize in laparoscopic surgeries. We also have a child-friendly environment with excellent healthcare professionals for the diagnosis and treatment of undescended testis.