How is cryptorchidism treated?
Sep 18, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, the main treatment methods for cryptorchidism include close observation, hormonal therapy, laparoscopic surgery, open surgery, and autologous testicular transplantation. In addition, after treatment, patients should follow their doctor's instructions for regular follow-up visits to monitor testicular development and function. If abnormalities such as scrotal swelling or increased pain occur after surgery, medical attention should be sought promptly to adjust the treatment plan and ensure healthy testicular development.
Generally, the main treatment methods for cryptorchidism include close observation, hormone therapy, laparoscopic surgery, open surgery, and testicular autotransplantation. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Close Observation
This method is primarily used in infants within 6 months after birth. After birth, some undescended testes may spontaneously descend into the scrotum with normal growth and development. Parents should follow medical advice to bring the infant for regular follow-up examinations, monitoring changes in testicular position through physical examination and ultrasound. If the testis has not descended by 6 months of age, timely intervention with other treatments is necessary to avoid impairing testicular development.
2. Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy is suitable for certain eligible children. Under medical guidance, medications such as human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) injection or luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) nasal spray may be used. These drugs promote endogenous androgen secretion, stimulate testicular descent, help reposition the testis into the scrotum, and create favorable conditions for subsequent development.
3. Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopic surgery is a common minimally invasive approach for treating cryptorchidism, especially effective for high-positioned undescended testes. The procedure involves making small incisions in the abdomen, through which a laparoscope and surgical instruments are inserted. The undescended testis is precisely located, surrounding tissues are released, and the testis is then pulled down and fixed inside the scrotum. This technique causes minimal trauma, allows faster recovery, and effectively reduces the risk of postoperative complications.
4. Open Surgery
Open surgery is indicated for lower-positioned undescended testes or cases that are difficult to manage via laparoscopy. An incision is made in the inguinal region or scrotum to directly expose the undescended testis. Adhesions and surrounding tissues are dissected, and the testis is brought down into the scrotum and securely fixed. This direct approach ensures stable positioning of the testis within the scrotum, providing an optimal environment for normal testicular development.
5. Testicular Autotransplantation
This method is used when the undescended testis is located very high and its blood vessels are too short to allow direct mobilization into the scrotum. During the procedure, the undescended testis along with its blood vessels is removed and then microsurgically reconnected (anastomosed) to blood vessels in the scrotal area. This restores adequate blood supply to the testis within the scrotum, preserving its normal physiological function and preventing damage due to ischemia.
In addition, patients should undergo regular follow-up examinations as directed by their physician after treatment to monitor testicular development and function. If abnormalities such as scrotal swelling or worsening pain occur after surgery, prompt medical evaluation and adjustment of the treatment plan are essential to ensure healthy testicular development.
