Andrological laparoscopy

The laparoscopic technique has well defined indications for some andrological procedures such as the diagnosis and the treatment of cryptorchidism, but its role remains controversial in varix ligation for which laparoscopy is however the newest development. At the Institute of Urology of the University of Milan from January 1992 to June 1994 five adults patients with undescended and unpalpable testis underwent laparoscopy. In 4 cases laparoscopic orchiopexy (2 direct and 2 staged procedures) and in one case laparoscopic orchiectomy have been performed. In the same period 20 cases of varicocele (6 bilateral) have been observed and treated by laparoscopic varix ligation. For cryptorchidism after the identification of the testis we decide on the basis of parenchimal trophism wheter to perform orchidopexy or orchiectomy. A single step laparoscopic orchiopexy can be performed if the undescended testis is located proximal to the internal inguinal ring and if the mobilization of the spermatic vessels allows it. A Fowler-Stephens staged orchiopexy is indicated for intra abdominal testicle with short spermatic vessels. In the first stage the spermatic vessels are isolated and divided relying on the compensation offered by the deferential and extrafunicular vessels. After six months, once the testis trophism has been ascertained, the testis can be placed in the scrotum. For varicocelectomy the peritoneum is incised at the projection of the spermatic cord from the internal inguinal ring. A blunt and gentle dissection prepares the spermatic vascular bundle, the spermatic artery is identified and isolated and the vein are clipped and divided.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)