Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 13, 2025

Vessel-Sparing Microsurgical Longitudinal Intussusception Vasoepididymostomy to Treat Epididymal Obstructive Azoospermia
Published on: May 27, 2022
Polyorchidism: An Up-to-Date Systematic Review
Krzysztof Balawender1, Agata Wawrzyniak2, Józef Kobos3
1Department of Normal and Clinical Anatomy, Institute of Medical Sciences, Medical College of Rzeszow University, 35-315 Rzeszów, Poland.
Polyorchidism, a rare condition with supernumerary testes (SNTs), most often presents within the scrotum. Diagnosis via imaging influences treatment, favoring observation over surgery in many cases.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Andrology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Polyorchidism is a rare congenital anomaly involving duplication of the testes.
- Supernumerary testes (SNTs) can be located within the scrotum or ectopically.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the characteristics, diagnosis, and management of polyorchidism.
- To analyze the distribution and associated conditions of supernumerary testes (SNTs).
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published data on polyorchidism.
- Analysis of SNT location, diagnostic methods, associated conditions, and treatment approaches.
Main Results:
- 76% of SNTs were scrotal, 24% extra-scrotal (inguinal canal 87%, abdominal 13%).
- Diagnosis was predominantly via imaging (80%), influencing management towards observation (45% vs. 35% surgery).
- Common associated conditions included inguinal hernia and cryptorchidism (15% each).
Conclusions:
- The management of SNTs is guided by their location and suspicion of malignancy.
- Imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosing SNTs and directing therapeutic strategies.
Related Concept Videos
Infertility in Males
The Ratio of X Chromosome to Autosomes
Normal male Drosophila has a ratio of one X chromosome to two sets of autosomes. In contrast, normal female...
Sex-linked Disorders
Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra....
Nondisjunction

