Testicular venography in the nonpalpable testis

Localization and identification of a nonpalpable testis can be done accurately by testicular venography. The identification of the pampiniform plexus is essential to the localization of the testis by this method. We evaluated 15 patients 3-39 years of age with 21 nonpalpable testes. Fourteen successful testicular venograms were performed showing four retroperitoneal testes, four testes within the inguinal canal, and two testes located in the superficial inguinal pouch. Three nonpalpable testes were thought to be due to true agenesis, and one venogram was performed after prior surgical removal of the testis. Catheterization of the left testicular vein was accomplished with greater ease and accuracy (79%) to the right side (42%).