Cryptorchidism: a general surgical perspective

The treatment of cryptorchidism has changed, with surgery now advocated before the age of two years. Delayed treatment affects fertility, malignant potential and psychological stress.

To assess the pattern of referral of cryptorchid patients to a surgical clinic, management and follow-up.

A four-year review of 114 cryptorchid patients examined age at presentation, waiting time, timing of surgery and length of follow-up.

The mean age at presentation to the surgical clinic was 6.7 years (neonatal to 71). The mean age at orchidopexy was 5.6 years. Seventy per cent had a surgical procedure within eight weeks of presentation to a surgeon. Seven per cent were kept under surveillance until a maximum age of three years before orchidopexy was considered. Only 29% proceeded to surgery before the age of two. Seventeen were referred to a paediatric urology unit for further management.

Orchidopexy seems prudent between one and two years of age. Only one-quarter of patients underwent early orchidopexy. It is vital that it is detected early, by paediatricians at birth or the general practitioners (GPs) at the six-week check up. Prompt referral to a surgeon with a paediatric interest is essential in order to permit surveillance or surgery.