Needlescopic surgery for cryptorchidism: the initial series.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to report the initial experience with needlescopic surgery (2-mm optics and instrumentation exclusively) for the cryptorchid testicle.

METHODS

Ten patients (age 8 months to 37 years) underwent 12 needlescopic procedures: orchiopexy (n = 8), orchiectomy (n = 2), and diagnostic exploration with attempted excision of testicular remnant (n = 2). Two patients underwent bilateral needlescopic orchiopexy. Needlescopic (2 mm) optics and instrumentation were used exclusively in the pediatric patients.

RESULTS

All procedures were completed successfully by needlescopic techniques. Mean surgical time was 110 minutes (range, 60 to 180 minutes), and blood loss was 6 mL (range, 0 to 20 mL). There were no intraoperative complications. All procedures were performed on an outpatient basis. In all 8 orchidopexies, the testis was successfully brought to a scrotal position.

CONCLUSIONS

Needlescopic techniques allow safe performance of various procedures for a cryptorchid testicle. The cosmetic result is excellent.