Long-term Outcome of Laparoscopic Surgery for Nonpalpable Undescended Testis

The aim of this study was to objectively assess the long-term results of laparoscopic orchidopexy in patients who were diagnosed clinically to have nonpalpable undescended testis (UDT).

All operated cases of nonpalpable UDT from January, 2000, to January, 2014, were reviewed. After informed consent, all patients were subjected to a color Doppler ultrasound examination to assess the location of the testis, its size, blood supply, and consistency. The size of the testis, operated and nonoperated, was noted down in volume using the formula of 0.71 × length × breath × height.

A total of 114 patients could be identified, who had undergone laparoscopy for nonpalpable UDT in the study period. Of these, 44 patients (54 units) underwent a color Doppler study to assess the testes. All the testes were found to lie in the scrotum with preserved blood supply. The volume of the operated unilateral testes (mean = 1.605 cm³) was smaller than the normal nonoperated side (mean = 2.524 cm³). The smaller testicular volume was observed in spite of maintained blood supply to the testes. In cases of bilateral UDT, both the testes were smaller in size (mean = 2.2 cm³), but were comparable to each other. In addition, the ultrasound examination revealed the presence of normal homogenous parenchyma of all the testes similar to the nonoperated side.

Laparoscopic orchidopexy is a safe and effective option in the treatment of nonpalpable UDT. On a long-term basis, it is possible to achieve scrotal position along with preserved blood flow following laparoscopic orchidopexy in all patients suffering from nonpalpable UDT.