Purpose
While the nonpalpable testis represents only a small portion of all cryptorchid testes, it remains a clinical challenge for pediatric urologists. Many controversies about the best evaluation and management exist. This narrative review serves as an update on what is known about the nonpalpable testis: etiology, pre-operative evaluation, the best surgical management, novel techniques, and ongoing controversies.
Materials and Methods
A Pubmed® and MEDLINE® search limited to January 2000 to January 2017 was performed using relevant key terms. Of 367 articles, a total of 115 manuscripts were considered for inclusion based on an a priori design. Utilizing a narrative review format, an update on the evaluation and management of the nonpalpable testis including novel concepts and techniques was synthesized.
Results
The nonpalpable testis should be evaluated by physical exam only. Imaging is not indicated for the routine case. The optimal surgical approach and technique remains debated, but several novel techniques have been described. Due to the rarity of the nonpalpable testis, randomized controlled trial and other quality comparisons are difficult. Therefore, several controversies in management remain.
Conclusions
The evaluation and management of the nonpalpable testis remains difficult and some aspects remain debated. Future research should focus on multi-institutional collaborative trials to determine the optimal operative management.