Orchidopexy without ligation of the processus vaginalis is not associated with an increased risk of inguinal hernia

Purpose

To report our experience using a modified orchidopexy with division and non-ligation of the processus vaginalis.

Methods

We performed a single-centre retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent orchidopexy between December 2005 and October 2008 at our institution. In the present technique, the processus vaginalis was gently peeled off the spermatic cord structures as high as possible and severed at the level of the internal inguinal ring without its ligation. Postoperative follow-up was routinely offered to all patients. Additionally, we made a special clinical follow-up, ranging from 1 to 69 months (median 34).

Results

One hundred and twenty-three patients, aged 1–11 years (median 3), underwent 147 orchidopexies during the study period. Of these, 25 were accomplished using conventional division and ligation of the processus vaginalis, and in the remaining 122 orchidopexies, the processus vaginalis was only divided. Of the 137 testes available at follow-up, 134 were in the scrotum and 3 (2 %) required re-do orchidopexy due to secondary reascent, including 2 treated with division only of the processus vaginalis. None of the patients experienced postoperative hydrocele or inguinal hernia development.

Conclusions

Our findings confirm that division without ligation of a patent processus vaginalis is usually followed by spontaneous peritoneal scarring and complete closure of the internal inguinal ring. Present technique is as effective as traditional orchidopexy and saves extra time spent for meticulous closure of the processus vaginalis or peritoneal tears.