Undescended testicles, the most common condition in boys, are known as one of the developmental disorders most frequently monitored and treated by pediatric surgeons. Surgery for Undescended Testicles is now easier than ever before. The testicles are responsible for sperm production and the secretion of sex hormones. In boys, the testicles fail to reach their proper position during fetal development, which is called undescended testicles. This undescended testicles are the most common congenital anomaly related to sexuality in males. It occurs in approximately one in every 100 males. Undescended testicles are generally three times more common in preterm babies than in full-term babies. The reason for this higher incidence is that as babies develop, the testicles, located in the abdominal cavity, begin to descend into the scrotum after the seventh month. As the birth approaches, the testicles, which have moved towards the scrotum, become lodged there as well. In other words, undescended testicles occur after the seventh month, due to the failure of the testicles to settle into their proper position. Undescended testicles can occur on one or both sides, and 80% of cases occur on the right side. The testicle usually begins to descend after three months. Surgery is usually the treatment for undescended testicles. 

Undescended Testicle Surgery is performed at our Ankara Private Magnet Hospital. You can easily schedule an appointment and meet with our expert physicians, adhering to strict hygiene guidelines. By discussing the treatment process and any potential complications that may arise in the future, you can address your health concerns. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for undescended testicles.

What are the causes of undescended testicles?  

The exact causes of undescended testicles are unknown. It can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• Absence of testicle, Developmental delay:  This condition is related to the testicle not being formed in the womb or it may be lost after formation due to vascular occlusions.
• Testicle retained within the abdominal wall:  In this case, no testicle can be found in the scrotum or inguinal canal upon physical examination. In these cases, the testicle is thought to be retained within the groin.
• Retractile testicles (shy testicles)  : Commonly known as retractile testicles. In this condition, the testicle retracts toward the groin as a result of contraction of the testicular muscles, causing the testicles to disappear. This condition is usually noticed after exposure to cold. This type of testicle is not a disease like undescended testicles; it is usually a temporary condition.
• Hormonal disorders:  Undescended testicles are more common in people with hormonal disorders.
• Retained testicle:  This is one of the most common conditions. In this case, the testicle is located within the inguinal canal. It is usually detected after a physical examination.

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing undescended testicles in babies. These include:

• Premature birth
• Having low birth weight
• Mother's use of alcohol or tobacco during pregnancy
• A family history of undescended testicles or other genital organ abnormalities
• Conditions that prevent the development of the fetus in the womb (Down Syndrome, etc.)

In cases where many factors such as this are involved, the likelihood of undescended testicles occurring in babies increases.

What are the symptoms of undescended testicles?

One of the most significant symptoms is the underdevelopment and small size of the scrotum on the affected side of the testicle. Although very rare, in some cases, an undescended testicle can become entangled and cause severe groin pain. The testicles require a certain temperature to function properly, which is about 3 degrees Celsius lower than body temperature. Undescended testicles are often affected by heat, leading to impaired function and inability to perform their functions.

If the testicle doesn't descend into the scrotum as it should, its volume decreases, reducing sperm quality. This can lead to infertility and cancer. Individuals diagnosed with undescended testicles should receive treatment as soon as possible.  

How is Undescended Testicle Diagnosed?

Most undescended testicles can be detected during a physical examination immediately after birth. This condition is usually evident during the first checkup. Ultrasonography is used in patients who cannot be seen after the physical examination. Ultrasonography is used to determine the location and size of the testicle, and to compare it with the other testicle. This method is considered sufficient in some cases. However, when the location of the testicles cannot be determined, laparoscopic methods are used. Laparoscopy is used to determine the presence and location of the testicle in patients who cannot locate it in the groin and to guide appropriate treatment. The advantage of the laparoscopic method is that it allows the testicle to be located and then lowered into its original location.

How is Undescended Testicle Treated?

Under normal circumstances, the testicle is expected to descend within one year at the latest. Surgery is considered the only treatment option for a testicle that has not descended within one year. The risk increases if an undescended testicle remains untreated. To minimize the risks, testicular surgery should be performed before the age of 18 months. The ideal age for undescended testicle surgery is between 6 and 18 months. The surgical procedure involves making a 2-3 cm incision just above the groin. The undescended testicle is then located and placed within the scrotum. The surgery takes approximately 30 minutes. An inguinal hernia may be present during the surgery, and in these cases, hernia repair may also be performed. Undescended testicle surgery is a highly successful procedure.

After Surgery for Undescended Testicles

Postoperatively, the patient is monitored to determine whether the testicle is still in place, whether development is continuing, and whether there are any functional problems. The patient can return to their daily routine two days after surgery. Bruising and swelling in the sac and along the inguinal canal are normal after the surgery. Infection and bleeding can occasionally occur in the early stages. There is no problem with the patient walking and moving around the house. The patient is scheduled for an appointment 3-4 days after the surgery, and the dressing is removed after a checkup. There is no harm in bathing after the dressing is removed.

Most Frequently Asked Questions?

What are the Costs of Undescended Testicle Surgery?

Undescended testicle surgery costs vary depending on the severity of the condition. It is not appropriate to provide a price quote without a thorough evaluation of the patient's condition. To provide a definitive estimate on undescended testicle surgery costs, the patient must undergo certain checkups and, depending on the specific situation, our doctors will then approve the procedure. You can easily undergo the necessary examination at our hospital and have the confidence of our expert doctors. For more detailed information about undescended testicle surgery,  please contact our hospital at 0312 212 80 80.  We at Private Ankara Magnet Hospital wish you good health. 

When is Surgery Required for Undescended Testicles?

Once diagnosed, the baby is usually monitored until the child is one year old. If the testicle remains undescended during follow-up, surgery is recommended. In very special circumstances, surgery may be postponed by a few months.

What can cause undescended testicles?

Some functional disorders can occur in the testicles' ability to perform their functions. These can lead to various problems, including infertility, testicular cancer, and testicular torsion (spermatic cord entanglement).

Can an undescended testicle heal on its own?

There's no chance of an undescended testicle resolving itself. The definitive treatment for this condition is surgery. The success rate with surgery is as high as 90% to 100% .

What is the Frequency of Undescended Testicles?

At birth, if the baby is born full-term and of normal weight, an undescended testicle is diagnosed in three out of every 100 newborns, and in an average of 35 out of every 100 newborns born prematurely or with low birth weight. Undescended testicles are seen on the right side in approximately 80% of cases, and undescended testicles are seen on both sides in 10% of cases.