Book Appointment
Service Illustration

Understanding Undescended Testis

An undescended testis (cryptorchidism) is a condition where a testicle has not moved down into the scrotal sac before birth. The testicle may be located along the normal descent path (groin canal) or inside the abdomen, requiring surgical relocation (orchidopexy) to preserve function.

Causes of Undescended Testis

The exact cause is multifactorial, involving:

  • Premature Birth & Low Birth Weight: Early birth interrupts the natural descent process that normally occurs in the third trimester.
  • Hormonal Imbalances: Deficiencies in maternal or fetal hormones (androgens) that guide the descent pathway.

Signs of Undescended Testis

Visual and physical signs include:

  • Empty Scrotum: The scrotal sac on one or both sides is flat and empty.
  • Groin Bulge: A small, smooth, palpable lump felt in the groin area.
  • Asymmetric Scrotum: One side of the scrotum appears significantly smaller than the other.

Why Early Intervention Matters

An undescended testis (cryptorchidism) that remains in the abdomen is exposed to higher body temperatures, which can impair future fertility and increase the risk of testicular cancer. Surgical correction (orchidopexy) is recommended before the child reaches 12 to 18 months of age to maximize functional outcomes, preserve fertility, and allow for easier screening for abnormalities later in life.

Comprehensive Care Approach

Our approach ensures the utmost care and minimal discomfort for your child. For palpable testes, we perform a straightforward daycare procedure. For non-palpable testes hidden in the abdomen, we use advanced laparoscopy for both diagnosis and treatment in a single setting. Our team provides clear post-operative guidance to ensure a smooth and rapid recovery at home.

Advanced Care

Treatment Options

Open Orchidopexy

A standard daycare surgical procedure to bring a palpable undescended testis down into the scrotum.

Laparoscopic Orchidopexy

Keyhole surgery to locate and bring down a non-palpable testis located high in the abdomen.

Diagnostic Laparoscopy

A minimally invasive exploration to confirm the presence, location, and condition of a missing testis.

Clinical Path

The Surgical Process

01

Examination

A careful physical exam and sometimes an ultrasound are used to locate the testis and determine the surgical approach (open vs. laparoscopic).

02

Orchidopexy

The testis is mobilized, blood vessels are carefully preserved, and it is secured in a newly created pocket in the scrotum.

03

Recovery

Most children go home the same day. Recovery is quick, with minimal discomfort and dissolvable stitches that don't need removal.

Success Stories

Hear From The Parents

"Our baby boy had a palpable undescended testis. Dr. Sujit did an open orchidopexy as a daycare procedure. Excellent care and quick recovery."

Manish Gupta
Father of 1yo patient

"My son's testicle was located high in the groin. Dr. Sujit performed laparoscopic orchidopexy safely. The scars are almost invisible."

Aarti R.
Mother

"Reassuring, patient, and highly skilled pediatric urologist. The entire surgical process was explained so well to us."

Rahul K.
Father

"The precision in Dr. Chowdhary's surgery is incredible. His confidence gave us immense peace of mind during a very stressful time."

Anita Sharma
Mother

"We traveled from another city just for Dr. Chowdhary. His approach is very scientific and methodical yet very caring."

Karan Singh
Parent
Dr. Sujit Chowdhary

Urological Specialist

Why Choose Dr. Sujit Chowdhary?

Testicular descent is a precise surgical task. Using minimally invasive techniques ensures the best anatomical results with minimal trauma.

  • Specialist in Laparoscopic Orchidopexy for abdominal testes.
  • High success rates in complex redo orchidopexy.
  • Expert in daycare pediatric surgical procedures.
  • Focus on cosmetic results and fertility preservation.
  • Compassionate care for little ones and their parents.
Learn More About Doctor

Common Queries

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should an undescended testis be operated?

Surgery (orchidopexy) is recommended between 6 months and 1 year of age to preserve germ cells and future fertility.

What investigations are required for a non-palpable testis?

Diagnostic laparoscopy is the gold standard, as ultrasound and MRI cannot confirm with certainty whether a testis is absent.

Can hormone injections bring the testis down?

Hormone therapy (like HCG) has a very low success rate and is no longer recommended in modern pediatric urology.

Is a laparoscopic orchidopexy performed as a daycare procedure?

Yes, laparoscopic orchidopexy is routinely performed as a daycare procedure, and the child can go home the same day.

What if the testicle is found to be vanished or atrophic?

If diagnostic laparoscopy reveals a blind-ending vessel or atrophic tissue, the non-functional tissue is removed, and a cosmetic prosthesis can be placed later during puberty.

What is the recovery time after laparoscopic orchidopexy?

Most infants recover quickly and are active the same day. Vigorous play and stridulent toys (like straddling bicycles) should be avoided for 2 weeks.

Does having one absent or undescended testis affect future fertility?

With timely surgical descent of the other testis, fertility rates are generally normal or near-normal. Prompt surgery minimizes the risk.

Get in Touch

Book an Appointment

Timely orchidopexy preserves testicular cells and future fertility. Schedule a consultation today.

Clinic Address

D6, Club, 2, opposite Vasant Vihar, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi, Delhi 110057

Call for Emergency

+91 98732 06761

Google Profile

View Profile & Reviews