Indian Journal of Urology (Jan 2000)
Role of laparoscopy in the management of impalpable testis
Abstract
Aim: A study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of laparoscopy using conventional laparoscopy equipment in children presenting with impalpable testis. Patients and Methods: Prospective study to include all boys referred with impalpable testis between 2 yrs-12 yrs. Examination under sedation (Chloral hydrate 50-75 mg/ kg oral) by a consultant pediatric surgeon. Period of study included all consecutive boys referred between October 97-October 98. A database was created to enter clinical details, imaging studies, laparoscopic findings, surgery and outcome. Results: 13 consecutive boys included in the study with 15 impalpable testes. 2 testes could not be located on laparoscopy. 6 testes were located on laparoscopy, 4 near the internal ring and 1 each at the bifurcation of iliac vessels and paravesical region. All 6 underwentfirst-stage Fowler Stephens orchidopexy followed by second-stage in 5 of them. The other 7 underwent conventional or-chidopexy for canalicular testes. Conclusions: Laparoscopy is a safe and effective method of evaluating and treating a child with impalpa-ble testis. Conventional adult equipment used in trained hands is safe for use in normal children older than 2 years.
