Testicular self-examination in adolescents following childhood orchiopexy for cryptorchidism.
AI interpretation is pending for this paper.
Open original publication →What the AI sees
Not AI summarized yet.
Research significance
Pending deeper interpretation.
Source abstract
INTRODUCTION: Cryptorchidism is associated with an increased lifetime risk of testicular malignancy. Although orchiopexy reduces this risk and facilitates examination, postpubertal vigilance remains important. We assessed adherence to monthly testicular self-examination (TSE) among adolescents and young men who underwent childhood orchiopexy. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study with a cross-sectional telephone questionnaire component. Patients who underwent orchiopexy for cryptorchidism at a tertiary children's hospital between 2010 and 2020 and were at least 13 years old at the time of the study were identified from institutional records. Eligible parents or caregivers were contacted by telephone and completed a structured questionnaire assessing current TSE practices, recalled counseling and perceived barriers. The final cohort included 127 patients who underwent isolated orchiopexy and completed the questionnaire. RESULTS: Median age at orchiopexy was 1.8 years (IQR 1.0-7.0; mean 4.2 ± 4.5; range 0.5-17.0); 114 repairs (89.8%) were unilateral and 124 testes (97.6%) were inguinal. Only 22 patients (17.3%) attended follow-up after age 13 years. TSE counseling was documented in 18 records (14.2%), and 16 parents/caregivers (12.6%) recalled receiving such advice. Overall, 6 patients (4.7%) reported monthly TSE; all had received explicit guidance, had attended adolescent follow up and were from above average socioeconomic backgrounds. The most common barrier was lack of knowledge or instruction. CONCLUSION: Adherence to TSE after childhood orchiopexy was very low and appeared largely driven by inadequate education. A structured transition plan with age appropriate, preferably in person counseling and clear communication with primary care may improve adherence.