I have a undescended left testicle. I am in my late twenties. I had an operation when I was around 7-10 years of age. It was an operation to repair a hernia in my low abdomen. I guess it was a inguinal hernia. Did that operation lead me to having a undescended testicle? I really want to have the testicle lowered into my scrotom. Is this possible and is it risky? Has my testicle sufferred from any deformaties over the years by being in my abdomen? When I do my self examinations I can feel only part of my testicle.
Dear Tom,
If your testis is not in the scrotal sack for whatever reason, then it will not function to produce sperm though it will make testosterone (male hormone).. It could be brought down with an operation.
The surgical procedure would be more of a cosmetic issue if the testicle can be adequately palpated (examined) and does not cause you any physical or emotional discomfort.
To address the question about deformities, the intra-abdominal testis can suffer its ability to contribute to the overall fertility of the patient if not brought down in early childhood (current thinking is by one year of age). Your operation could conceivable have resulted in its current position. However , remember you do have a second testicle which can more than adequately generate sperm to have children.
I think you need to see a urologist for a full history and physical to sort out the details. The urologist can then tell you the risks and benefits of the operation. At that time you can decide if you want to have the testicle brought down.
This information is provided for general medical educational purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653-6568). Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-AK
*keyword:Undescended testicle
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