[Laparoscopy as essential method in the diagnosis of nonpalpable testis]

To analyze the utility of laparoscopic evaluation in the diagnosis of the nonpalpable testis versus conventional imaging techniques based on our experience with 51 cases and data reported in the literature.

Testicular tumors were found in both intra-abdominal testes in one patient, as well as 7 cases of evanescent testis and 39 testicular rests in the inguinal canal. Four other intra-abdominal testes showed no changes.

The possibility of an existing intra-abdominal testis and its possible progression to malignancy warrant exploration of the nonpalpable testis by laparoscopy, a very simple and effective procedure.