Minimally Invasive Surgery for Orchidopexy in Children with Cryptorchidism: Reducing the Need for an Inguinal Incision

Abstract Purpose: This study was to summarize our experience with minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of boys with cryptorchidism. Methods: A retrospective study of laparoscopic orchidopexy (group A = 29) and laparoscopic ligation of the patent processus vaginalis (PPV) plus trans-scrotal orchidopexy (group B = 78) was conducted between July 2018 and July 2021. Results: Seven patients had to be converted to trans-inguinal surgery in group A. In the remaining 22 patients, successful laparoscopic orchidopexy was performed. The discharge rate on post-operative day 1 was 93.5%, but there was no difference between the two groups (p > 0.05). The operative time of group B in bilateral cryptorchidism was significantly shorter than group A (p < 0.05), but there was no difference in the case of unilateral cryptorchidism (p > 0.05). There was no testicular retraction, testicular atrophy, inguinal hernia, or hydrocele during the follow-up period in both groups. Although the incidence of post-operative fever and poor wound healing in group B was higher than in group A, this was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Laparoscopic and trans-scrotal surgery are safe and effective methods for patients with cryptorchidism, reducing the need for trans-inguinal surgery.