CRIPTORQUIDIA

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testicle that did not descend

Situation in which one or both testicles are not found in the usual position inside the scrotal sac. The evaluation allows to distinguish cryptorchidism from other situations, such as the retractile testicle, and establish the appropriate guidance.

One of the sides of the scrotal sac appears to be empty?

It may not cause pain — and yet, it should be evaluated early.

After 6 months of corrected age, spontaneous descent becomes unlikely.

When the descent does not end

During pregnancy, each testicle forms in the abdomen and travels a path to the scrotum.

01


​where it forms
ABDOMEN

02


​where it may stop
SPERMATIC CORD

03


​usual destination
SCROTUM

​PALPABLE
Can be felt in the groin
This is the most frequent situation.

​NOT PALPABLE
Cannot be felt by touch
This does not automatically mean it is in the abdomen.

​AT 6 MONTHS OF CORRECTED AGE
If it still has not descended, it is unlikely to descend spontaneously.
​It does not result from anything the parents have done.

Retractable is not the same as not descended

RETRACTABLE

Rises temporarily, but can be gently brought to the scrotum and remains there for some time.

Usually does not require surgery. Should be reevaluated every year until puberty.

NOT DESCENDED

Did not complete the descent and does not reach - or does not remain - in the scrotum during the examination.

If it persists after 6 months, treatment should be planned.

ASCENDING

Was previously in the scrotum, but stopped staying there. Also needs specialized evaluation.

BEFORE THE CONSULTATION

Ultrasound is not usually necessary and should not delay specialized evaluation.

Do not try to pull or force the testicle into the scrotum at home.

The time of decision matters

Timely correction seeks to protect the development of the testicle and facilitate future follow-up.

01

BIRTH AND FIRST MONTHS

Observe the descent and confirm the position in the clinical examination.

02

6 MONTHS · CORRECTED AGE

If it hasn't descended, spontaneous descent later is unlikely. Evaluation by Pediatric Surgery should not be delayed.

03

6–12 MONTHS

Ideal window to perform orchiopexy when indicated.

03

UP TO 18 MONTHS

Ideally, treatment should be completed. If diagnosis is later, do not delay evaluation or treatment.

If a testicle that was in the scrotum stops being there, it should be evaluated as soon as the change is noticed.

If surgery is indicated

IF IT IS PALPABLE

Small incisions

Usually in the groin and scrotum; in lower testicles, a scrotal approach may be sufficient.

IF IT IS NOT PALPABLE

May require laparoscopy

After a new examination under anesthesia, it can be located and the approach defined. Some high intra-abdominal testicles require two stages.

45–60 min

simple unilateral surgery

Same day

usual discharge

5–7 days

usual return to school

3–4 weeks

no bicycle, physical education or sports

WHAT THE TREATMENT SEEKS

To favor growth and preserve, as much as possible, the potential for function and fertility, facilitating future surveillance.

Approximate times. Vary depending on location, one or both sides and the need for laparoscopy or staged surgery. The total stay in the clinic is longer.

Follow - and act in the face of pain

Cryptorchidism without symptoms is not usually an emergency. Sudden pain changes this rule.

AFTER TREATMENT

Follow-up confirms position and growth. In adolescence, attention to testicular health is maintained - even after a successful correction.

SEEK URGENT EVALUATION IN THE FACE OF
  • ●
    Sudden pain in the groin, abdomen or scrotum
  • ●
    Lump or painful swelling in the groin, red or hardened
  • ●
    Pain accompanied by vomiting or marked malaise

A testicular twist is an emergency.

AFTER SURGERY

Contact the team in the face of fever, increasing redness, secretion, persistent bleeding, significant swelling or uncontrolled pain.

If none of the testicles are palpable in a newborn, priority specialized evaluation is necessary.

what is evaluated in the treatment

01.

pathological conditions.

If the patient has recurrent difficulties or other clinical conditions that may justify surgery.

02.

Hygiene and comfort.

The doctor will evaluate the patient's comfort level, taking into account their hygiene and potential complications caused by the absence of the testicle.

03.

Aesthetic reasons.

The doctor will discuss the expectations and benefits of the procedure.

Book a pediatric surgery consultation

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