What are the testicles and what is an undescended testicle?
Testicles are the male sex organs that produce sperm and male hormones. When they first develop they are near the kidneys and by the time the child is born, the testicles should have moved down into the scrotum. If one or both testicles have not descended into the scrotum, then it is an undescended testicle.

Locating an Undescended Testicle
Your baby's doctor may detect an undescended testicle at birth. More often, it is found when the baby is a few months old. The doctor will most likely check the testicle over the next few months to see if it descends on its own. If not, surgery is needed to bring the testicle down into the scrotum.

Why should the testicles be in the scrotum?
The testicles are supposed to be in the scrotum because it allows the testicles to have a slightly lower temperature, which is ideal for sperm. If the testicles were to remain in the body, the person would be sterile because sperm cannot live in a 98.6 degree Fahrenheit atmosphere.

An undescended testicle has a higher risk of cancer, a fact which remains true even after the testicle is brought down into the scrotum. However, bringing down the testicle makes such a problem easier to find. An undescended testicle may also leave a small tear (hernia) in the wall between the abdomen and the groin. If this happens, the hernia needs to be treated to prevent future problems.

What is a retractile testicle?
This is a testicle that has moved into the scrotum, but when the muscles attached to the testicle contract, the testicle is pulled back into the groin. Treatment is rarely needed for this.

Note: Retractile testicle should not be confused with an undescended testicle.

Resolving the Problem with Surgery
The undescended testicle is brought down into the scrotum during surgery. Rarely, but occasionally, a testicle is malformed and must be removed.

Surgery Procedure

  • You and your son will be asked to arrive at the hospital or surgery center 1 to 2 hours before surgery.
  • Anesthesia is given to keep your son comfortable.
  • One opening (incision) will be made in the groin or abdomen. Another small incision will be made in the scrotum.
  • The testicle is detached from the tissue surrounding it. Then it is brought down and stitched to the wall of the scrotum.
After Surgery
  • Your son will most likely go home a few hours after the surgery. He should feel better in 2 to 3 days.
  • The doctor may prescribe medication to relieve any pain your child has. Be sure to use it as directed.
  • The stitches will dissolve or be removed 7 to 10 days after the surgery.
  • Call the doctor if the incision bleeds or becomes red, if there is a discharge from the incision, or if the child has a fever over 100.2 degrees Fahrenheit or cries more than usual.
Follow-Up
Your son should have his testicles examined regularly throughout his life. His healthcare providers need to know if he has had surgery for an undescended testicle, but rest assured that your son can lead a normal adult life.


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