Abstract
Background
: Cryptorchidism is a common condition in boys. Approximately 20% of undescended testes are nonpalpable and may be located within the abdominal cavity. Given the potential of these gonads for malignant transformation and infertility, it is essential to determine the presence or absence of a nonpalpable testis.
Methods
: Radiologic imaging and open surgical exploration have proved to be unreliable. In the hands of experienced surgeons, laparoscopy has become the method of choice for evaluating the nonpalpable testis.
Results and Conclusion
: An increasing number of surgeons are applying laparoscopy in the treatment of nonpalpable testes, and early results are encouraging. Both diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy necessitate operative skills. The exact advantages of laparoscopy over conventional surgery in orchidectomy and single- or two-stage orchidopexy need to be determined.
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