Undescended Testicle

An undescended testicle is a condition in which the testicles that should be in the scrotum are not in the scrotum in male babies. Normally, the testicles form in the abdomen as the fetus develops and descend into the sac called the scrotum over time. In some cases, however, this descent is not complete and the testicle does not reach its normal place. An undescended testicle can usually affect one or both testicles.

What is an undescended testicle?

Undescended testicle is a term that refers to the condition where the testicle does not descend to its normal place in men. In medical language it is called cryptorchidism. Undescended testicle, which is the most common congenital anomaly in boys, can be successfully corrected with early diagnosis and treatment. Each untreated month can decrease the function of the testicle by 1% after the 6th month. It can lead to problems such as infertility, risk of testicular cancer, inguinal hernia and psychological problems.

Why does undescended testicles occur?

The exact cause of undescended testicles is not known, but several factors may contribute to its occurrence. Undescended testicles usually have a complex etiology, meaning that more than one factor may influence the condition. Here are some possible factors that may contribute to the occurrence of undescended testicles:

• Genetic factors: A family history of undescended testicles doubles the risk.
• Hormonal factors: Testosterone and other hormones help the testicles descend. A deficiency or imbalance of these hormones may play a role in undescended testicles.
• Intra-abdominal pressure: Increased intra-abdominal pressure can prevent the testicles from descending.
• Other factors: Premature birth, low birth weight, infections in the womb, certain medications and birth defects are among the risk factors.

What are the symptoms of an undescended testicle?

Undescended testicles can usually be recognized immediately after birth or within the first few months. However, sometimes symptoms may not be observed and the condition may be detected during a routine examination or during tests for another health problem. Symptoms of an undescended testicle can be as follows:

• Visible Symptoms: One or both testicles are missing from the scrotum (sac). One side of the scrotum appears smaller or less developed than the other.
• Symptoms Detected During an Examination: During a pediatric examination, the doctor cannot find the testicles in their normal location. The doctor feels the testicles in the abdomen, groin area or inguinal canal.
• Pain or Discomfort: An undescended testicle usually does not cause pain, but in some cases there may be mild pain or discomfort in the groin area.
• Delayed Physical Development: If a child's testicles do not descend to their normal place, it can lead to problems with sexual development and may cause developmental delays during puberty.

Signs of undescended testicles are usually visible or can be detected by a doctor during an examination. Parents or caregivers are looking for answers to the question "How to recognize an undescended testicle?" Parents should check their baby regularly and consult a healthcare provider if they notice any abnormalities.

How is an undescended testicle diagnosed?

An undescended testicle can be diagnosed during a pediatric examination, usually soon after birth or within the first few months of life. The main methods used to diagnose undescended testicles are as follows

• Physical examination: During a pediatric exam, the doctor examines the baby's or child's scrotum. He or she will palpate the scrotum to determine if the testicles are in their normal place. If one or both testicles are not in their normal place, an undescended testicle may be considered.
• Ultrasound (USG): The doctor may use imaging tests such as ultrasound (USG) to confirm the presence of an undescended testis. Ultrasonography is used to locate the testicles and see any possible abnormalities. USG can help determine if the testicles are in the abdomen, groin, or inguinal canal.
• Visual tests: In some cases, the doctor may order imaging tests (such as magnetic resonance imaging - MRI) to look more closely at the undescended testicle. These tests can help determine the position of the testicle and understand the cause of the undescended testicle.

A diagnosis can usually be made with these simple exams and imaging tests. If an undescended testicle is diagnosed, the doctor will usually explain the treatment options and possible outcomes.

Undescended Testicle Treatment

The condition of an undescended testicle is usually treated with surgery. The goal of surgery is to place the testicle in its normal position. Treatment for an undescended testicle usually takes place between the ages of 6 and 18 months, depending on the child's age and the severity of the condition. Surgery is usually a simple procedure performed under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon will position the undescended testicle properly in the scrotum and may use supportive measures to fix the testicle if necessary. Treatment at an early age has a positive effect on the child's health and prevents possible complications. 

Undescended testicle surgery

Treatment for undescended testicles usually involves surgery. Parents are curious about the answer to the question: How is undescended testicle surgery performed? The goal of the surgery is to restore the testicle to its normal position. Undescended testicle surgery is usually a simple procedure and is usually performed under local or general anesthesia. During surgery, the surgeon will place the undescended testicle in the proper position in the scrotum and may use supportive measures to hold the testicle in place. After surgery, a boy's scrotum may swell and he may experience mild pain, but these are usually short-term problems. Recovery from surgery is usually quick, and children can usually return to their normal activities within a short time. Bandaging after undescended testicle surgery is usually done under the supervision of a doctor. On the other hand, the price of undescended testicle surgery usually varies depending on criteria such as hospital, doctor's experience, and postoperative checks.

Frequently Asked Questions on Undescended Testicles

About the problem of undescended testicle, parents are looking for answers to questions such as what is undescended testicle, undescended testicle surgery prices.

What is undescended testicle?

Undescended testicle is a condition that usually male babies are born with and it means that the testicle does not descend to its normal place. Normally, testicles form in the abdomen during infant development and descend into a pouch called the scrotum after birth. In some cases, however, this descent is not complete and the testicle does not reach its normal place.

Will an undescended testicle descend on its own?

An undescended testicle can usually be detected immediately after birth or within the first few months. In many cases, the testicle can descend to its normal place on its own, but this condition sometimes requires surgery. In a baby with an undescended testicle, the likelihood that the testicle will descend to its normal place decreases with age. Between 6 months and 1 year of age, if the testicles still do not descend to their normal place, surgery is usually considered.

What happens if an undescended testicle is left untreated?

If an undescended testicle is left untreated, several complications can occur. These complications can include reduced fertility, an increased risk of testicular cancer, and problems such as inguinal hernia. In addition, if an undescended testicle is left untreated, there may be damage to the testicular tissue, which can negatively affect testicular function in the future.