Undescended testicle in children: causes and the importance of early surgical intervention
Dr. Ali Al-Salam, a pediatric surgery resident at Qatif Central Hospital, confirmed that approximately 40% of cases of undescended testicles in children require surgical intervention. He emphasized the importance of early detection to avoid future complications that could significantly impact a child's health and reproductive capabilities. This statement was made during an awareness event organized by the hospital to raise awareness about common surgical conditions in children.
What is an undescended testicle and how common is it?
Undescended testicle, or cryptorchidism, is a common congenital condition in which one or both testicles fail to descend into their normal position in the scrotum before birth. During fetal development, the testicles form inside the abdomen and then gradually descend into the scrotum during the last months of pregnancy. This condition is more common in premature infants, affecting about 30% of them, compared to only 3-4% of full-term infants. In many cases, the testicle descends spontaneously within the first three to six months of life, but if it does not, medical intervention is necessary.
The importance of early diagnosis and the crucial timing of treatment
Dr. Al Salam explained that accurate and prompt diagnosis is the cornerstone of managing these cases. He noted that the pediatric surgery department deals with various types of this problem, including true undescended testicles, undescended testicles, and retractile testicles. The treatment plan is determined based on a thorough clinical examination of each individual case. He emphasized that the period up to six months of age is considered a period of initial monitoring and evaluation. After this age, if the testicle has not settled into its normal position, surgical intervention becomes necessary. He added that cases where the testicle is located within the abdominal cavity require mandatory surgery at six months of age to ensure the preservation of its vital functions in the future.
Health risks associated with delaying treatment
Neglecting or delaying treatment for undescended testicles exposes a child to serious long-term health risks. The presence of the testicle outside the scrotum means it is exposed to a temperature higher than the body's core temperature, which can damage the tissues responsible for sperm production, thus increasing the risk of infertility in adulthood. Furthermore, the risk of testicular cancer is significantly higher in men with a history of untreated undescended testicles. The condition also increases the likelihood of other complications such as inguinal hernia and testicular torsion, a medical emergency requiring immediate surgical intervention.
The role of hospitals and awareness campaigns
The awareness events organized by Qatif Central Hospital are part of the health sector's efforts to enhance community awareness. These campaigns aim to provide free consultations and direct clinical examinations for parents and visitors, and to educate them about critical health conditions that require special attention. Dr. Al Salam concluded his remarks by directly advising parents not to hesitate or delay in taking their children to a specialist if they suspect any problem, emphasizing that timely intervention ensures the child's healthy development and protects them from serious complications.
