What Is Undescended Testicle (Cryptorchidism)?
Undescended testicle is the condition in which the testicle cannot descend into the scrotum during the normal development process.
It is seen in approximately 4.3% of babies. Within the first three months, most testicles descend to their normal position; however, in approximately 1% of cases, this condition persists.
Medically known as cryptorchidism, if left untreated it may negatively affect sperm production and lead to male infertility.
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What Causes Undescended Testicle?
Although the exact cause of undescended testicle is not fully known;
- Hormonal imbalances,
- Genetic factors,
- Narrow inguinal canal,
- Maternal diabetes, premature birth, or low birth weight are known to trigger this condition.
Types of Undescended Testicle
- Canalicular undescended testicle: This is the most common type. The testicle remains within the inguinal canal.
- Intra-abdominal undescended testicle: The testicle remains in the abdominal cavity; surgery is usually required in this type.
- Ectopic testicle: The testicle is located outside the normal descent pathway, for example in front of the anus or in the groin region.
- Testicular atrophy: Testicular tissue shrinks or disappears.
- Retractile testicle: The testicle occasionally descends into the scrotum but does not remain there permanently.
What Are the Symptoms of Undescended Testicle?
Undescended testicle is usually noticed during visual and manual examination.
The absence of the testicle in the scrotum creates an appearance of unilateral or bilateral shrinkage.
Symptoms include:
- One side of the scrotum appearing smaller,
- Testicle not being palpable,
- Rarely, pain or discomfort in the groin area,
- In advanced cases, infertility or risk of testicular cancer.
When the testicle remains inside the body, the temperature increases. This condition stops sperm production and negatively affects hormonal balance.
How Is Undescended Testicle Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made through physical examination.
However, in cases where the testicle cannot be palpated, the following methods are used:
- Ultrasonography (USG)
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Laparoscopy (used for both diagnosis and treatment in intra-abdominal testicles)
The urology and andrology specialists of FertiJin IVF Center diagnose undescended testicle cases quickly and accurately with advanced imaging systems.
How Is Undescended Testicle Surgery (Orchiopexy) Performed?
Undescended testicle surgery is a surgical procedure performed to move the testicle into the scrotum.
The most appropriate time is between 6–18 months.
As this period passes, sperm-producing cells may be damaged and the risk of infertility increases.
Stages of the Surgery
- The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
- The testicle is located through a small incision in the groin area.
- The testicle is prepared with adequate length, moved into the scrotum, and fixed.
- If necessary, hernia repair can also be performed during the same session.
- The surgery duration is approximately 15–30 minutes.
Cosmetically, it leaves almost no scar and the patient can be discharged on the same day.
Things to Consider After Surgery
- Children can usually return to normal activities within 1–2 days.
- Area hygiene should be maintained and the wound site should be kept dry.
- Without doctor recommendation, bathing should not be done and pressure should not be applied to the area.
- Follow-up examination is usually performed after 1 week.
After surgery, the growth and development of the testicle are monitored. Conditions such as testicular atrophy or re-ascent are rare.
What Happens If Undescended Testicle Is Not Treated?
The following complications may occur in untreated undescended testicle cases:
- Infertility
- Increased risk of testicular cancer
- Hernia development
- Testicular torsion
- Hormonal imbalances
Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are of great importance for the child’s future reproductive health.
Relationship Between Undescended Testicle and Infertility
Undescended testicle causes an increase in testicular temperature.
The reason testicles are located outside the body is that sperm production requires a cooler environment.
Therefore, untreated undescended testicles may cause a decrease in sperm count and quality in later life.
In treated children, the chance of becoming a father naturally is preserved.
Undescended Testicle Surgery Prices – Istanbul
Undescended testicle surgery prices vary depending on the location of the testicle, the surgical technique to be applied, and the patient’s age.
FertiJin Women’s Health and IVF Center performs safe, scar-free, and successful surgeries with its modern surgical infrastructure and experienced urology specialists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does an undescended testicle descend on its own?
Yes, in some babies the testicle descends into the scrotum spontaneously within the first 3 months. However, if it has still not descended after 6 months, surgery should be planned.
When should undescended testicle surgery be performed?
The ideal period is between 6 and 18 months. In operations performed later, permanent damage in sperm production may occur.
Can the testicle move upward again after surgery?
Although rare, it can be seen. It can be detected early and treated with regular follow-up.
Does undescended testicle cause infertility?
If left untreated, yes. However, with early surgery, this risk is largely eliminated.