Answer:

An undescended testicle is a condition where one or both testicles do not move down into the scrotum, remaining instead in the abdominal cavity or inguinal canal during fetal development. In the first few months after birth, the testicles can still naturally descend into the scrotum due to the influence of sex hormones. However, this process typically stops after the child reaches six months of age. If the testicle has not descended after this point, the likelihood of spontaneous recovery is low.

Failure to intervene can damage germ cells, leading to a decrease in both sperm count and quality, which directly impacts fertility when the child reaches adulthood. An improperly positioned testicle also increases the risk of developing cancer and is prone to dangerous acute complications, such as testicular torsion or testicular injury.

Corrective surgery helps return the testicle to its proper physiological position. The timing of the surgery is crucial for restoring sperm production function and reducing the risk of future complications for the child.

The "golden" age for this procedure is from six to 18 months old, ideally before the child turns one year old. Your child is already at an age where intervention is possible, so you should take your baby to the hospital for a doctor to examine, ultrasound the testicle's position, and create an appropriate surgical plan.

Doctor Nguyen Do Trong, Specialist Level II (right), performs laparoscopic surgery to treat undescended testicles in a pediatric patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Nguyen Do Trong, Specialist Level II (right), performs laparoscopic surgery to treat undescended testicles in a pediatric patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

To diagnose the condition, doctors typically combine clinical examination with imaging methods, such as scrotal ultrasound, abdominal ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Utilizing a high-tech ultrasound system with a high-frequency transducer helps doctors accurately determine the testicle's position, size, number, and parenchyma condition without causing pain to the child.

This surgery is performed either laparoscopically or via open minor surgery, depending on the undescended testicle's location. The advantages include being minimally invasive, safe, quick, and less painful, allowing children to be discharged after only one to two days. After surgery, the testicle will develop normally within the scrotum, preserving reproductive function into adulthood.

While awaiting surgery or follow-up appointments, you should observe your child's inguinal-scrotal area during bathing or diaper changes. Do not arbitrarily manipulate or press firmly on the groin area, as this can cause pain or damage to surrounding tissues. If the child shows signs of severe crying, a red and swollen groin area, or accompanying vomiting, you must take the child to the hospital immediately to determine the cause and provide timely treatment, ruling out testicular torsion or testicular injury.

Doctor Nguyen Do Trong, Specialist Level II

Department of Pediatric Surgery

Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City