A recent retrospective study published in June 2026 evaluates the clinical efficacy and safety of SPLT-Orchiopexy for undescended testes in children. Researchers investigated single-port transscrotal laparoscopic orchiopexy combined with a hernia needle as a minimally invasive alternative to conventional methods. The study focused on patients with palpable middle- and low-position undescended testes, comparing 80 children in the SPLT-Orchiopexy group with 120 children who underwent conventional laparoscopic surgery (CLS).

Advantages of SPLT-Orchiopexy for Undescended Testes

The findings indicate that the SPLT-Orchiopexy group experienced significantly shorter operative times and less intraoperative blood loss. Furthermore, these patients achieved earlier ambulation and had a shorter length of hospital stay compared to the CLS group. Notably, postoperative pain scores, assessed using the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, and Consolability (FLACC) scale, were lower in children treated with the single-port technique. Cosmetic satisfaction was also higher, as scar outcomes at 6 months postoperatively showed better results on the Observer Scar Assessment Scale (OSAS) and the Patient Scar Assessment Scale (PSAS).

Regarding surgical success, both techniques demonstrated high efficacy. The surgical success rates were 96.2% for SPLT-Orchiopexy and 97.5% for CLS, with no statistically significant difference between the two. Moreover, the incidence of postoperative complications remained similar across both groups. Consequently, the researchers performed a logistic regression analysis which identified that age and the preoperative location of the testis were independent factors associated with postoperative complications. Therefore, younger age and higher testicular position may require more cautious management regardless of the surgical technique used.

In summary, SPLT-Orchiopexy combined with a hernia needle is an efficient and safe procedure for managing palpable undescended testes in the pediatric population. It provides significant advantages in terms of perioperative recovery and aesthetic outcomes without compromising surgical success. Surgeons should consider this approach to improve patient comfort and parental satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary benefit of SPLT-Orchiopexy for undescended testes?

The procedure significantly reduces operative time and intraoperative blood loss while providing superior cosmetic results and lower postoperative pain compared to conventional laparoscopic methods.

Is the success rate of SPLT-Orchiopexy comparable to conventional surgery?

Yes, clinical data shows that the surgical success rate for SPLT-Orchiopexy (approximately 96.2%) is statistically similar to conventional laparoscopic surgery (97.5%).

Which factors most influence postoperative complications in orchiopexy?

According to multivariate analysis, the patient's age and the initial location of the undescended testis are the primary independent factors affecting the likelihood of postoperative complications.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

Lin Q et al. Clinical efficacy of single-port transscrotal laparoscopic orchiopexy combined with hernia needle for palpable undescended testes in children. BMC Pediatr. 2026 Jun 04. doi: 10.1186/s12887-026-07036-6. PMID: 42243819.

Li S et al. Advantages of single-site laparoscopic orchiopexy for palpable undescended testes in children: a prospective comparison study. World J Pediatr. 2024 Jan;20(1):66-72. doi: 10.1007/s00383-023-05630-8.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Standard Treatment Guidelines: Undescended testis in children. 2018.