Abstract
Introduction Fowler–Stephens orchidopexy is the most widely used technique for the surgical management
of intra-abdominal testes with laparoscopy being the preferred approach. The aim of
this study was to review all two-stage laparoscopic Fowler–Stephens orchidopexies
performed in one pediatric surgical unit over a 7-year period.
Methods A retrospective case series of all patients undergoing two-stage laparoscopic Fowler–Stephens
orchidopexy was performed. Primary outcome measure was testicular atrophy at follow-up.
Secondary outcomes included testicular atrophy at second-stage operation and testicular
ascent requiring redo surgery.
Results A total of 83 two-stage laparoscopic Fowler–Stephens orchidopexy were performed,
with outcome data available for 67. Median age at first stage was 1 year 11 months.
No testes had undergone atrophy at the second-stage laparoscopy. Median follow-up
was 1 year. The overall success rate was 86.4%. Seven patients were noted to have
an atrophic testis at the initial clinic review. Five patients required redo orchidopexy
for testicular ascent. Of these, two patients had a successful result, two patients
subsequently had testicular atrophy and one awaits redo surgery.
Conclusion We conclude that Fowler–Stephens orchidopexy has a relatively good outcome. The rates
of reoperation after the two-stage Fowler–Stephens orchidopexy were low in this study.
Overall success rate compares very favorably to published literature.
Keywords
Fowler–Stephens - laparoscopic - orchidopexy - two-stage - undescended testis
