[High-resolution sonography in cryptorchism]

The importance of high-resolution sonography in the localization of undescended testes was displayed by an evaluation of 18 patients. In 15 patients the testis was not palpable on one side. In 3 cases, there was retention of the testis on both sides. Out of 17 testes in the inguinal region or in the external iliac region, 16 were located sonographically. There were 4 intraabdominal testes, and 2 were located sonographically. The retained and impalpable testes were in superficial positions in most cases. Hence, sonography proved to be the primary imaging method for localization. The importance of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and phlebography of the internal spermatic vein are also discussed.