Details of Cryptorchidism (Undescended Testicle) Surgery

Cryptorchidism, or an undescended testicle, is a testicle that hasn’t moved into its proper position in the scrotum before birth. Mostly just one is affected, but about 10 percent cases have both testicles affected. Common among baby boys born prematurely.

Not seeing or not feeling the testicle is the main sign.

Probably a combination of genetics, maternal health and other environmental factors may trouble hormonal balance and nerve activity that influence the development of the testicles.

May include:

• Low birth weight
• Premature birth
• Family history of undescended testicles or other problems of genital development
• Down syndrome or an abdominal wall defect
• Alcohol use or cigarette smoking by mother during pregnancy
• Parents’ exposure to pesticides