Undescended Testicles

Posted by Sophia on April 26, 1999 at 14:58:03
Dear doctor,
My son had an undescended testicle when he was born.  He is now 7 months old and the testicle has not descended.  I am aware of the risks associated with untreated undescended testicle.  I wonder when is the best time for him to undergo surgery?  Will it be too late to him to undergo the surgery when he is two years old?
Thank you very much.
Sophia

Posted by HFHS M.D.-AK on April 29, 1999 at 14:57:48
Dear Sophia,
Cryptorchidism is one of the most common disorders in humans.  In some cases, birth occurs before the descent of the testis and is the reason why undescended testicles are so common in premature infants.  Some physicians state that a testicles should have a full year to descend yet most testes that descend during the first year of life actually do so within the first three months.  If after a year, the testicles has not descended, it should be surgically corrected.
The best time for patients to have surgery for an undescended testis is between the age of 8 months and 18 months.  This will give the patient a decreased risk of anesthesia complications, yet provides the best chance that the testicle will be able to function normally for fertility.  Its hard to say if two years is too late, but I would tell you that the longer you wait, the less chance that the undescended testis has for the function of fertility.
I think you could schedule surgery anytime after your initial consultation if appropriate.  I would speak to your urologist and get their recommendation.
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 testis