Orchidopexy for a palpable testicle (child)

When your child's testicle does not come down to the scrotum normally, an orchidopexy surgery may be needed to bring a testicle down.

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Having an orchidopexy can be quicker than you may think.

What is an orchidoprexy?

An orchidopexy is an operation to bring a testicle down into the scrotum. The testicles develop in a baby boy's abdomen when he is in the womb. The testicles usually move down into the scrotum by 35 weeks of pregnancy. Sometimes a testicle does not come down normally.

What are the benefits of surgery?

Surgery should prevent your child from having serious complications. Your child’s fertility should improve, particularly if both testicles need to be brought down, and he will find it easier when he is an adult to examine his testicles to check for any problems.

Are there any alternatives to surgery?

If a testicle has not reached the scrotum by the age of 6 months, it is unlikely to do so without surgery. There is no other way of bringing the testicle down into the scrotum.

What does the procedure involve?

The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic and usually takes 45 minutes to an hour. Your surgeon will usually perform the operation through a cut on the groin and a small cut on the scrotum.

Your surgeon will free up the testicle and bring it down into the scrotum. If your surgeon finds a small testicle that is unlikely to function, they will usually remove it.

What complications can happen?

Like all surgical procedures, there are some levels of risks to consider. Some of these can be serious and can even cause death. However, you can speak to your doctor about the following general and specific complications that may worry you.

General complications of any operation

Pain
Bleeding
Unsightly scarring of the skin
Infection of the surgical site (wound)

Specific complications of this operation

Developing a collection of blood or fluid under the wound
Shrinking of the testicle
The testicle may return to its original position
Prevention of sperm passing to the penis
Reduction in fertility of a testicle that is brought down

How soon will I recover?

He should be able to go home the same day. It is usual for children to return to school after about a week. Most children make a full recovery and can return to normal activities.