Cryptorchidism

What is cryptorchidism?

Cryptorchidism is a condition where one or both of the testicles fails to descend into the scrotum in the dog or cat. Testicles normally develop in the abdomen by the kidney and then descend into the scrotum by two months of age. If one or both testicles has failed to descend into the scrotum by 6 months of age, it is unlikely they ever will.

The retained testicle(s) may be located in the abdomen, in the inguinal canal (the passage through the abdominal wall leading into the scrotum) or in the subcutaneous tissue (the fat under the skin) in the groin region.

How is cryptorchidism treated?

Removal of both testicles is recommended. Cryptorchidism is more than just a cosmetic issue; it can affect the health of your pet. Retained testicles can lead to torsion (twisting of the testicle on itself) which is a surgical emergency, cancer of the testicles and infertility. Retained testicles are approximately 10 times more likely to develop cancer than descended testicles. Removal of both testes is recommended as cryptorchidism is an inherited condition, and these pets are not recommended for breeding.

The retained testicle can sometimes be located by palpation (feeling the testicle) if it is in the groin region, or by ultrasound or at surgery if it is in the abdomen.

Cryptorchid surgery is more complicated than a routine neuter, especially if the testicle is located in the abdomen. It is important to choose a surgeon with a thorough knowledge of anatomy who is experienced with this procedure.

After surgery, the testicles should ideally be sent for histopathologic evaluation (biopsy) to look for any evidence of cancer.

What is recovery like?

After surgery your pet will need to have activity limited for about 10-14 days and the incision site kept dry.  No running, jumping or playing should be allowed. The incision should be monitored for any redness, swelling or discharge and an E-collar should be used to prevent your pet from licking or chewing the incision.  Pain medications will be prescribed to be given for several days after surgery and in some cases antibiotics will also be sent home.   

Immediately post-surgery, your pet may be drowsy, uncoordinated or nauseous. Unless otherwise instructed, we normally recommend the following for food and water:

  • Water Reintroduction: Offer a small amount of water 30 minutes to 1 hour after arriving. If there are no signs of nausea and water is kept down, more can be offered in small amounts. You may resume normal water access the following day,

  • Food Reintroduction: Offer 1/2 their normal feed 2 hours after arriving home. If there are no signs of nausea and food is kept down, you may resume normal feedings the following day.

Detailed postoperative instructions will be provided to you after the surgery that outline medications, and incision care. Bandages on the IV catheter site can be removed once you get home. It is normal for some bruising and swelling to occur. If there is no pain or discharge associated with the swelling, continue to monitor at home. Please notify us or your veterinarian if you observe:

Prognosis

Your dog or cat should lead a normal life if the retained testicle is removed before problems develop.

Potential complications that have been reported in association with cryptorchid surgery include trauma to the prostate, gastrointestinal signs and urinary tract trauma, which is why a board certified surgeon is often recommended by your general practice veterinarian.