The Role of Ultrasonography (US) in localization of Non Palpable Undescended testis (NPT)

Abstract

During a 3-years period ( from October 2005 to October 2008) we saw 65 boys from 80 (NPT) on either or both sides. All were examined by the referring physician, underwent (US) examination, and were then re-examined afterwards by urologist. Finally, all boys were surgically explored for testicular position and treatment. Ultrasonography located 64 NPT (80%), 20 (25%) within the abdomen and 44 (55%) in the inguinal canal. we found 90% sensitivity of US for inguinal testes and 66% sensitivity for abdominal testes. When US located a testis it was also found at that site during surgery in 96% of NPT (PPV 95.6%). In our study, only two viable testes were not located correctly, being in the inguinal canal at US and within the abdomen at surgery. This can be explained by the fact that there was a patent internal inguinal ring with a mobile testis. Ultrasonography is useful to determine localization of( NPT), which facilitates planning the surgical procedure. An inguinal exploration is called for when US identifies the testis in the inguinal canal. Because the sensitivity of US for viable abdominal testes is only 66%, we recommend to perform laparoscopic exploration when US is negative.