Compared outcomes of high-level cryptorchidism managed by Fowler-Stephens orchiopexy versus the Shehata technique: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND

The surgical approach for high-level intra-abdominal testis (IAT) is variable. While most pediatric urologists prefer staged Fowler-Stephens orchiopexy (FSO), Shehata publicized a novel approach-known as staged laparoscopic traction orchiopexy (SLTO) or the Shehata technique-to better manage IATs.

OBJECTIVE

This study compares the overall success rates, atrophy rates, retraction rates, and operation times of the two procedures to assist surgeons with developing procedure strategies.

METHODS

Databases were searched for relevant literature involving these two approaches, and studies meeting the eligibility criteria were involved; RevMan 5.4 was used to conduct this meta-analysis. The relative risk (RR), weighted mean difference, 95% confidence interval (CI), p-value, publication bias, and heterogeneity were calculated.

RESULTS

The Shehata technique demonstrated better performance than staged FSO regarding the overall success and atrophy rate, while the retraction rate and operation time had no statistical difference.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that the Shehata technique may be an alternative to staged FSO for managing high-level IATs. Additional high-quality studies regarding the Shehata technique, as well as a long-term follow-up, are required for further and more credible analysis.