Comprehensive Care For Undescended Testicles In Children

Early diagnosis and treatment protect against fertility problems and testicular cancer. Rely on the specialized pediatric urology team at Gaelan Hospital.

What is an undescended testicle?

An undescended testicle, medically called cryptorchidism, occurs when one or both testicles fail to move into the scrotum before birth. It is one of the most common congenital anomalies in newborn boys, affecting 3-5% of full-term and 30% of premature infants.

If Untreated, complications may include:

• Infertility (due to impaired sperm production)
• Testicular cancer (increased lifetime risk)
• Inguinal hernia (due to associated tissue defects)
• Testicular torsion (twisting of the testicle)

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Most specialists recommend intervention before 12–18 months of age.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Premature birth: Higher incidence in babies born before 37 weeks.
• Low birth weight: Smaller infants are at increased risk.
• Family history: Genetic factors can increase the likelihood.
• Hormonal imbalances: Disruption in testosterone or other fetal hormones.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in pregnancy may contribute.

Symptoms Parents Should Notice

• Empty scrotum on one or both sides
• Smaller scrotal sac on the affected side
• Testicles that move back into the groin when touched (retractile testicles)
• Lump in the groin area

Early medical evaluation by Gaelan Hospital pediatric urologists ensures proper treatment and prevents long-term complications.

Diagnosis of Undescended Testicles

• Physical examination: Palpating the scrotum and groin to locate the testicle.
• Ultrasound or MRI: Helps detect non-palpable testicles.
• Hormonal tests: Occasionally used to evaluate testicular function.
• Laparoscopy: Both diagnostic and therapeutic for intra-abdominal testes.

Treatment Options

1. 1. Observation: Some testicles descend naturally within the first 6 months.

2. Hormonal Therapy: hCG injections or GnRH therapy to stimulate testicular descent.

3. Surgical Intervention (Orchiopexy):

• • Timing: Usually performed before 18 months
  • Technique: Minimally invasive laparoscopic or open surgery
  • Goal: Fix the testicle in the scrotum, preserve function, and reduce cancer risk

4. Testicular Prosthesis (if needed): For absent testicles in older children or post-surgery cases.

Patient Benefits at Gaelan Hospital:

• Safe, minimally invasive procedures
• Experienced pediatric urologists
• Pain management and post-op care
• Child-friendly environment

Long-Term Care and Follow-Up

Even after surgery, regular follow-ups are essential to:

• Monitor testicular growth and function
• Detect early fertility issues
• Screen for rare complications or malignancy

Gaelan Hospital provides a comprehensive post-operative program to ensure your child’s optimal health and development.

Why Choose Gaelan Hospital?

• Expert Pediatric Urology Team: Skilled in complex cases of undescended testicles
• Advanced Surgical Facilities: Minimally invasive laparoscopy available
• Child-Friendly Care: Safe, compassionate environment for children
• Central Location in Sharjah, UAE
• Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to long-term follow-up