Objectives: Little is reported on the management of impalpable testis in adults. We present the impact of laparoscopy in this patient group.
Patients and methods: Twelve adult patients have been referred to our centre over the last year, with impalpable testis. Pre-operative assessment was by either ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or both. Quality of life and patient satisfaction were assessed by validated SF8 and client satisfaction (CSQ-8) questionnaires. Patients were also administered a self constructed questionnaire specifically looking at the impact of a laparoscopic service on their condition.
Results: The mean age was 29 yrs (range: 19-36). Two patients declined treatment. Of ten patients undergoing transperitoneal laparoscopy, five had intra-abdominal testes treated by laparoscopic orchidectomy (none malignant), two had the vas going into the deep ring and needed inguinal orchidectomy for an impalpable nubbin while in three cases there were blind ending vessels and vas. SF8 scores for physical HRQoL were unchanged but mental scores were significantly improved (p < 0.03). All patients were completely satisfied with a mean CSQ-8 score of 30.6 out of a possible 32. The majority of patients indicated that the availability of a laparoscopic service had prompted them to seek medical advice.
Conclusions: Laparoscopic examination and orchidectomy is a safe and reliable procedure. Excellent patient satisfaction and quality of life are achievable. In particular mental health scores improve as previous uncertainty is removed. The advent of laparoscopy has encouraged adult patients to seek advice regarding a condition that has been present since childhood. We advocate the use of laparoscopy in evaluating and treating adult patients with maldescended testes.