Laparoscopy for the nonpalpable testis: how to interpret the endoscopic findings

We evaluated by laparoscopy 38 patients with 45 nonpalpable testes. Of 24 testes identified in the abdominal cavity 15 were atrophic, 2 had no epididymal connection and 7 were normal in appearance. Of the 38 patients 32 (84.2%) underwent exploration. A correlation of 100% occurred between laparoscopy and surgery concerning the presence or absence of the testis. Of the testes sought 60% were present (all but 1 in the abdomen) and 40% were absent. We conclude that diagnostic laparoscopy is as effective as exploration in adults and children, with a low risk of complication.