Laparoscopy for nonpalpable testis in childhood: is inguinal exploration necessary when vas and vessels are not seen?

A case of bilateral nonpalpable testes is described. Ultrasonography showed no testis. Laparoscopy revealed no intraabdominal testis, vas or vessels. Human chorionic gonadotrophine test suggested the presence of testicular tissue. Computed tomography showed a testis present in each inguinal canal. Inguinal exploration confirmed the finding. This case stresses the importance of careful interpretation of the laparoscopic findings together with other diagnostic methods in localizing testicular tissue in patients with nonpalpable testes.