Cryptorchidism Treatment in Dehradun – Expert Pediatric Surgical Care

Many parents worry when they cannot feel one or both testicles in their baby boy’s scrotum. As a pediatric surgeon at Altrus Healthcare, the best hospital in Dehradun, I want to explain undescended testes (cryptorchidism) and why timely treatment matters.

What are Undescended Testes?

Undescended testes, medically called cryptorchidism, occurs when one or both testicles fail to move down into the scrotum before birth. The testicles may be located in the abdomen or groin area.

How Common is This Condition?

Cryptorchidism affects about 3-4% of full-term baby boys and up to 30% of premature babies. In many cases, testicles descend naturally during the first few months of life.

Types of Undescended Testes

True Undescended Testes: Testicle is permanently located outside the scrotum and cannot be moved down manually.

Retractile Testes: Testicle moves up and down due to muscle reflex but can be gently brought down into scrotum. This is usually normal and doesn’t need surgery.

Ectopic Testes: Testicle is located in an abnormal position away from normal descent path.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Undescended testes can cause several problems:

Fertility Issues: Higher scrotal temperature affects sperm production in adulthood Cancer Risk: Undescended testicles have slightly higher risk of testicular cancer Torsion Risk: Twisted testicle can cause severe pain and damage Psychological Impact: Empty scrotum may affect child’s self-confidence later

When to Seek Medical Help

Consult a pediatric surgeon if:

• Testicle cannot be felt in scrotum.
• Previously descended testicle seems to have moved up
• Only one testicle is visible in scrotum
• Child complains of pain in groin area

Diagnosis Methods

Physical examination by experienced pediatric surgeon is usually sufficient. The doctor checks if testicles can be felt and moved into scrotum.

Sometimes, ultrasound may be needed to locate testicles that cannot be felt during examination.

Treatment Options

Hormonal Treatment: Rarely used and generally not very effective

Surgical Treatment: The standard and most effective treatment

Orchidopexy Surgery

This is the main treatment for undescended testes. The procedure involves:

• Locating the undescended testicle
• Freeing it from surrounding tissues
• Moving it down into scrotum
• Securing it in proper position

Best Time for Surgery

Surgery should be performed between 6 months to 12 months of age. Early surgery gives best results for future fertility and reduces cancer risk.

Surgical Approach

At Altrus Healthcare Dehradun, we use:

• Open Surgery: Traditional approach through small groin incision
• Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive technique for testicles located high in abdomen

Recovery and Care

Most children go home the same day after surgery. Recovery guidelines include:

• Keep surgical area clean and dry
• Avoid strenuous activities for 2-3 weeks
• Follow-up visits to ensure proper healing
• Watch for signs of infection or complications

Success Rates

Orchidopexy has excellent success rates, when performed by paediatric surgeons. Most children have normal testicular function and appearance after surgery.

Long-term Outlook

With timely surgery, boys with undescended testes can expect:

• Normal hormone production
• Better fertility potential
• Reduced cancer risk
• Normal appearance and function

Regular follow-up during adolescence helps monitor testicular development and teach self-examination techniques.

At Altrus Healthcare, we provide comprehensive paediatric surgical care with experienced specialists, ensuring the best outcomes for children with undescended testes.