Orchidopexy

1. What is Orchidopexy?

Orchidopexy, also called orchiopexy, is a surgical procedure used to treat an undescended testicle (cryptorchidism).

During the procedure, the surgeon carefully brings the testicle into the scrotum and secures it in the appropriate position.

2. When is Orchidopexy Recommended?

Orchidopexy may be recommended when:

• One or both testicles have not descended into the scrotum
• The testicle is located in the groin or abdomen
• A testicle moves repeatedly out of the scrotum in selected cases
• Testicular torsion requires surgical fixation
• A testicle is at risk of torsion in selected situations

The reason and timing of surgery depend on the patient's age and specific condition.

3. How is the Condition Evaluated?

Assessment may include:

• Physical examination
• Paediatric or urology specialist consultation
• Ultrasound in selected cases
• Assessment of whether the testicle can be felt
• Laparoscopy in selected cases when an intra-abdominal testicle is suspected
• Evaluation of both testicles and associated conditions such as inguinal hernia

Imaging is not always necessary when the testicle can be located by physical examination.

4. What Does the Procedure Involve?

The general treatment process includes:

Specialist evaluation → Confirmation of testicle location → Surgical planning → Anaesthesia assessment → General anaesthesia → Surgical mobilisation of the testicle → Placement into the scrotum → Fixation in position → Postoperative monitoring → Recovery and follow-up

For an intra-abdominal testicle, a laparoscopic approach may be used.

5. What Surgical Approaches Are Available?

Depending on the location of the testicle, surgery may involve:

• Open inguinal orchidopexy
• Scrotal orchidopexy in selected cases
• Laparoscopic orchidopexy for selected intra-abdominal testicles
• Staged procedures for high intra-abdominal testicles when required

The surgeon selects the safest and most appropriate approach.

6. How Long Does Surgery and Recovery Take?

The procedure commonly takes approximately 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on complexity.

Typical recovery may include:

• Hospital stay: usually same-day discharge or a short stay
• Initial recovery: approximately 1–2 weeks
• Return to normal activities: according to the surgeon's advice
• Follow-up: required to assess testicular position and healing

Recovery may be longer for complex laparoscopic or staged procedures.

7. What Are the Expected Benefits and Outcomes?

Orchidopexy may help:

• Position the testicle correctly in the scrotum
• Improve the ability to monitor the testicle
• Reduce the risk of certain complications associated with an undescended testicle
• Potentially support future fertility, particularly when performed at an appropriate age
• Improve cosmetic appearance

Early specialist assessment is important because an undescended testicle can affect future testicular function.

8. What Are the Risks or Considerations?

Potential risks include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Swelling or bruising
• Recurrence or re-ascent of the testicle
• Testicular atrophy due to impaired blood supply
• Injury to surrounding structures
• Persistent abnormal testicular position
• Need for further surgery

Individual risks depend on the location and condition of the testicle.

9. Why Consider Orchidopexy in India?

India has specialised paediatric surgery and urology centres offering:

• Experienced paediatric surgeons and urologists
• Laparoscopic surgical facilities
• Advanced paediatric anaesthesia
• Management of complex undescended testicles
• Postoperative monitoring and follow-up

10. How Can Medavelle Help and What Should the Patient Do Next?

Medavelle can assist with:

Medical-record review → Paediatric surgery/urology specialist coordination → Hospital selection → Surgical evaluation → Treatment planning → Cost estimation → International patient arrangements.

Next step: Share specialist consultation & available ultrasound reports → Paediatric/urology evaluation → Confirmation of testicle location → Personalised surgical planning → Orchidopexy → Recovery and follow-up