Undescended testes
Definition
Before birth, the testicles typically drop (descend) from inside the abdomen down into the scrotum.
•Undescended (cryptorchid) testicles don’t drop into the scrotum before birth or in the first few months of life.
•About 3% of babies have undescended testicles at birth. Undescended testicles affect up to 30% of premature babies.
Risk factors
ETIOLOGY UNKNOWN
•Premature birth
•Low birth weight
•Family history
•Abnormal Genital development
•Foetal growth restriction
•Substance abuse during pregnancy
•Exposure to pesticides
Types of undescended testes
An ascending testicle, or acquired undescended testicle, that has "returned" to the groin caused by spermatic cords, which attach each testicle to the body, fail to grow at the same rate as the rest of the [child] and can’t easily be guided by hand into the scrotum
Ectopic testes
•A retractile testicle, which moves back and forth between the scrotum and the groin and might be easily guided by hand into the scrotum during a physical exam. This is not abnormal and is due to a muscle reflex in the scrotum.
Diagnostic tests
•Testicular examination
• Pelvic Ultrasound, X-rays, a CT scan, an MRI or any other type of imaging study
Complications of untreated undescended testes
Fertility problems
•Testicular cancer
•Testicular torsion
•Trauma & other injuries
•Inguinal hernia
Management
-Your child may be treated conservatively with hormone injections to bring the testicle down into the scrotum.
- orchidopexy is indicated for corrective reconstruction of undescended testes and implanting them into the scrotum. usually done in within the first year of the baby.
Benefits of treatment
Fertility and health: may help prevent infertility and reduces your child’s chances of developing testicular cancer.
•Lower risk of injury: Injuries are more likely to occur from sports, a seat belt over the lap, tight clothing and belts.
•Self-esteem boost: As your child gets older, they may feel embarrassed if they only have one or no testicles in their scrotum.
•Safety: it is a safe procedure with a low risk of complications. Most people return home the same day.
Health education
Most children feel tired and sleepy after an orchidopexy. Recovery period two to three days sleeping more.
•Children over 12 months of age can resume normal activities in two or three days.
•Avoid any activities that strain their abdominal or groin region, tumbling, jumping, sprinting, laying on their stomach and straddling toys (rocking horse, see-saw, swing and tricycle).
Wash your hands with soap and water before handling your child’s bandages and incision areas.
•Showering or sponge bathing your child is OK. However, you should avoid washing your child in a bathtub for about a week.
•It’s important to remember that your child’s body is unique, so recovery times may vary.
•follow-up appointment in two weeks. Thereafter, two to three months.