Abstract

Objective: We evaluated diagnostic laparoscopy and laparoscopic orchiectomy applications in adult patients with non-palpable testis.

Materials and methods: Thirty patients (mean age 20 years; range 20 to 30 years) underwent laparoscopic procedures with the diagnosis of non-palpable testis based on the findings of physical examination, ultrasonography, and computed tomography. Laparoscopy was used to assess the presence and location of the gonads and to perform an orchiectomy or orchidopexy when necessary.

Results: Two patients (%6.7) had bilateral, and 28 patients (%93.3) had unilateral non-palpable testis. Unilateral involvement was on the right side in 16 patients (57.1%), and on the left side in 12 patients (42.9%). Laparoscopic orchiectomy was performed in six patients (%21.4) with unilateral non-palpable testis, who were found to have an intra-abdominal testis. Bilateral laparoscopic orchidopexy was performed in one patient with bilateral non-palpable testis due to low testosterone level. No complications were encountered. Histopathological diagnosis was made as atrophic testicle in all patients undergoing orchiectomy.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic management should be the first-line treatment in adult patients with non-palpable testis because of the possibility of false negative results of preoperative imaging modalities and the availability of simultaneous minimally invasive treatment options such as laparoscopic orchiectomy.