[Study of satisfaction of testicular prosthesis implantation in children].

UNLABELLED: Testicular absence may cause psychological trauma in children. It can be avoided by placing testicular prosthesis (TP). However there is no consensus on the optimal age of implantation. We evaluate the results of TP implantation and their complications, as well as patient and family satisfaction.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of TP implanted between 2004-2010 in our center. Variables analyzed are: age, size and side, indication, surgical technique, complications and comorbidity. Telephone survey was done by a single interviewer to 50 families.

DATA COLLECTED: general family satisfaction, characteristics of the prosthesis (size, shape, location and consistency), body image and psychological situation of the child, duration of analgesia after surgery, reoperation rate, and family advice to other parents. Statistical analysis with SPSS-18.0.

RESULTS

107 prostheses were placed (4 bilateral, 64 left and 35 rights) at a mean age of 70,10 +/- 58,6 months. The most common indication was cryptorchidism (48.2%). Initial inguinal approach in 69%, and simultaneous contralateral orchidopexy in 29.9%. Only one patient refused the prostheses. In 71% the mother was interviewed. Parents consider size, shape and position appropriate in 55.6%, 66.7% and 82.22% respectively. Hard consistency of TP was considered in 82.3% of the patients. Psychological problems were absent in 86.7%. Nighty five percent would be willing to replace when it was necessary. Parents would recommend the intervention to parents in the same situation in 86.7%.

CONCLUSION

Testicular prosthesis avoids psychological trauma. The lack of satisfaction regarding to the small size and hardness makes necessary to replace the TP in adulthood. An open question remains whether we should consider the placement of TP in early ages, or if we should establish some indications based on a more rational communication with the family.