Undescended testis, also known as cryptorchidism, is a common condition in male infants in which one or both testes fail to descend from the abdomen into the scrotum before birth. This condition occurs in approximately 3% of full-term male infants and up to 30% of premature male infants. If left untreated, undescended testis can lead to complications such as infertility, testicular cancer, and inguinal hernias. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial..
There are two main treatment options for undescended testis: surgical and hormonal. The choice of treatment depends on the age of the child, the position of the testis, and the presence of any associated conditions.
Surgical treatment involves the placement of the testis in the scrotum through a surgical procedure called orchidopexy. This procedure is usually performed between 6 to 12 months of age. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision in the groin and gently brings the testis down into the scrotum. The testis is inmemiş testis secured in place with sutures. In some cases, the surgeon may need to create a new opening in the scrotum for the testis to be placed in. The success rate of orchidopexy is high, with over 90% of cases achieving a successful outcome.
Hormonal treatment involves the use of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) injections, which stimulate the production of testosterone and encourage the testis to descend. This treatment is usually recommended for infants who are not suitable for surgery or whose testis is palpable but not fully descended. HCG treatment is given once or twice a week for several weeks. The success rate of hormonal treatment varies, with some studies reporting success rates of up to 50%.
In some cases, a combination of surgical and hormonal treatment may be required to achieve a successful outcome.
It is important to note that undescended testis requires ongoing monitoring and follow-up. After treatment, the child should have regular follow-up appointments with a pediatric urologist to ensure that the testis remains in the scrotum and to monitor for any potential complications.
In conclusion, undescended testis is a common condition that requires early diagnosis and treatment. Surgical and hormonal treatments are the two main options available, and the choice of treatment depends on several factors. With appropriate treatment and follow-up, the prognosis for undescended testis is generally good, and most children are able to lead normal, healthy lives.
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