Long-term outcome of laparoscopically managed nonpalpable testes

We evaluated laparoscopic diagnostic findings in 108 impalpable testes, and analyzed the success rate and long-term outcome of either direct laparoscopic orchiopexy or the 2-stage Fowler-Stephens procedure.

A total of 84 children with 108 impalpable testes and a mean age of 1.9 years underwent laparoscopy between 1992 and September 2000. Long-term outcome with regard to viability and location of the testes was evaluated.

Of the 108 testes 72 were located intra-abdominally, of which 28 were managed by direct laparoscopic orchiopexy, 29 were managed by a 2-stage laparoscopic Fowler-Stephens procedure and 15 were vanishing. The remaining 36 testes were inguinally located during exploration and orchiopexy, except for 5 vanishing testes. In all cases the operation proceeded as planned. After a mean followup of 6.2 years all laparoscopically managed testicles were in a normal scrotal position with normal perfusion as revealed by color flow Doppler sonography. Two testicles became atrophic after a 2-stage Fowler-Stephens procedure. Morbidity was low in all children.

The laparoscopic approach allows not only diagnosis, but also adequate therapy regardless of whether direct orchiopexy or a 2-stage procedure is performed. Our long-term results clearly demonstrate that even in the patients undergoing the 2-stage procedure the laparoscopic approach is safe and efficient, and leads to excellent results concerning viability of the affected testicles. Progress and experience gained during recent years are encouraging in continuing laparoscopic procedures in children.