Laparoscopic mobilization of testicular vessels: an adjunctive step in orchidopexy for impalpable and redo undescended testis in children

The testicular position after conventional inguinal orchidopexy for canalicular, "peeping" and redo undescended testes may not be satisfactory despite retroperitoneal dissection. Laparoscopy allows extensive mobilization of testicular vessels to gain additional length. We review our experience of using laparoscopic mobilization of testicular vessels (LMTV) in orchidopexy for these difficult undescended testes. From January 2003 to May 2004, LMTV was performed in 18 boys. The testicular vessels were mobilized from just proximal to the internal inguinal ring to the level of caecum and sigmoid colon respectively. Fifteen patients had clinically impalpable testes. Diagnostic laparoscopy revealed 13 "peeping" and 2 canalicular testes. LMTV was performed together with inguinal orchidopexy. There were three cases of redo orchidopexies because of unfavourable testicular position after previous surgery. LMTV was performed following inguinal dissection. The median follow-up period is 11.7 months. Sixteen testes are located at the base of scrotum, and two at mid-scrotum. The size is normal in 17 testes, whereas 1 testis is smaller than the contralateral one. LMTV is a safe and efficient adjunctive step in orchidopexy for impalpable and redo undescended testes.