The timing of cryptorchidism surgery: analysis of the contradiction between guideline consensus and clinical practice...

Cryptorchidism is one of the most common reproductive malformations in children, and the timing of surgery significantly impacts fertility and the risk of testicular cancer. Although international guidelines currently recommend testicular fixation within 6-18 months to improve prognosis, many children worldwide undergo surgery later than the recommended age. Delays in surgery are particularly significant in developing countries. This discrepancy may be influenced by factors such as ethnicity, comorbid malformations, economic status, and disease staging. This article provides an overview of global cryptorchidism guideline development and clinical realities, exploring the reasons behind surgical timing disparities to inform the revision of guidelines and improve treatment strategies and prognosis for children with cryptorchidism.