TESTICLE FIXATION

General Information

DEFINITION-Fastening an undescended or twisted testicle in its normal position.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED-Scrotum; testicle; vas deferens; blood vessels and nerves in the scrotum.

REASONS FOR SURGERY-Placement of an undescended testicle in its normal position, or correction of a twisted testicle. Usually done before a boy is age 5.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Chronic illness.
• Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; insulin; or cortisone.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES-Urologist or general surgeon.

WHERE PERFORMED-Hospital.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies.
• After surgery: Blood studies.

ANESTHESIA

• Spinal anesthesia by injection.
• Local anesthesia by injection.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• An incision is made in the scrotum or groin area.
• The blood supply and nerves leading to the testicle are located and carefully preserved.
• If the testicle has not descended from the abdomen, the surgeon reaches into the inguinal canal with special instruments and gently pulls it down.
• The testicle and its blood supply and nerves are pulled to the bottom of the scrotum and sewn in place.
• The skin is closed with sutures that will be absorbed by the body.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Surgical-wound infection.
• Damage to blood supply to the testicle.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY-3 to 6 days.

PROBABLE OUTCOME-Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 3 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• Apply an ice pack to the surgical area as needed for the first 24 hours after surgery to prevent excessive swelling.
• Use an electric heating pad, a heat lamp or a warm compress to relieve incisional pain beginning 24 hours after surgery.
• The incision may be washed gently with mild unscented soap.
• 2 pairs of jockey shorts should be worn for 4 to 6 weeks.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

ACTIVITY--Normal activity may be resumed as soon as possible to promote healing.

DIET-Eat a well--balanced diet to promote healing.

Call Your Doctor If

Any of the following occur:

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Discomfort or difficulty in urination.
• Increased pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding in the surgical area.
• Signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.