toddlers testical problem

[kitten_uk2]

My 2yr old son has to have an operation on his testicals sometime this year(waiting for appointment to come)
he only has one testical and has to have the right one put into place. i was very emotional at his last hospital visit, but held back the tears when the doctor said he would need an operation, i didnt ask the questions i should have, how long does the operation last for? what anesthetic will they use? and how long is recovery?
i know for sure ill cry when they put him to sleep, will it look silly blubbing over such a minor op? hope someone can help. kitten

[naz_nomad]

Do you mean the testicle is undescended?

[naz_nomad]

This procedure is usually performed between six months and two years of age and is called an orchidopexy procedure. This can be described as fastening the undescended testicle in its normal position.

Under a general anaesthetic, an incision is made in the scrotum or groin area. The blood supply and nerves to the testicle are identified and carefully preserved.

The surgeon may need to reach into the groin with special instruments to gently bring the testicle down. Under certain circumstances a laparoscope (telescope) may be used.

The testicle, its blood supply and nerves are sewn in place and the skin closed with self-absorbing sutures. Your little man will probably be in hospital for between three and six days.

The success of treatment depends on the position of the testicle(s) at diagnosis.




Without meaning to scare you, this will increase his risk of testicular cancer at a later date, something that was not know when I had this op in the '60's.

http://www.cancerhelp.org.uk/help/default.asp? page=2542

Anybody in the 'know' at the hospital should be able to give you more information on this ...

Just make sure that (from 14 years say) he regularly checks for lumps, and if one is found ... straight to the GP...I did 2� years ago ... had the op, 1 removed ... scary as hell ... over it ... no reason why I won't live to be 90.

[kitten_uk2]

yes naz the testical is there but not desended, the surgon said he may do a small op on the left one aswell as it feels tight whatever that means. the surgon said it is only a day thing, i just wondered how long the actual op lasts for, and how long for recovery

[naz_nomad]

I was only a kid and can just about remember being in hospital ... don't think it's a particularly tricky op.

I'd ring the hospital if your worrying ... they will tell you more.

[naz_nomad]

I remember having the stitches out later though ...screamed the hospital down.

Think I was nearer 5 yrs at the time.

He'll be fine ...

[boobesque]

my 7 year old had this done last year and was in for an hour under a general, he would have been in for less time but he had another procedure with it, if it had been his ballys alone they said it would have taken half an hour maximum

[boobesque]

oh and i cried like a baby when he was put to sleep even though his daddy took him in as i couldnt do it!

[naz_nomad]

boobesque ..be sure to look at my link further up ... just in case...


Although he'll be at a higher risk of testicular cancer when he's older ..if you're gonna get cancer, it's one of the most curable.

It's embarrassing to talk to a teenager about checking themselves (I would think) ... but when he's old enough, make sure he knows how, and what to look for.

[boobesque]

we would have his dad check him regulalrly or the doctor, he has cerebral palsy and were advised by the gp to have him checked once he is older. I read a story in take a break mag about a teenage boy with special needs who had the op and developed the cancer many years on, but his mum didnt feel it was acceptable to check him and no-one else offered, poor boy, he recovered, but it is important for someone to check if they cant do it themselves.

[larkin]

Hi kitten. Op time about half to three quarters of and hour but anaesthetic and Recovery time on either end.
Don't be alarmed if you seem to be waiting for an age to hear that he is ok - my son (5yrs) had circumcision last Mon. Took him an hour and a half to wake up properly in Recovery after his anaesthetic !
Bit sore for 2 days but now running around like his normal whirlwind self.Regular Calpol and Ibuprofen kept him comfy (you can give both together).
Worst bits - hunger due to nil by mouth requirements; anaesthetic room as he went to sleep;having to pee before he was allowed home - frightened to go - it hurt !
Best bit - needed doing and now over and done with .Hopefully no more problems!
Don't worry about blubbing in the anaesthetic room - the staff expect it ! I work in operating theatres and knew the anaesthetists, staff and surgeon and trusted them all implicitly . Still sobbed, as did my hubby.
General anaesthetic is calculated on weight of the child but some children metabolise the agents faster or slower than others so he may sleep for ages or be as bright as a button. Whatever, all anaesthtics and surgery carry risks so you have every right to be concerned however minor the op. The staff are highly trained professionals and your son will be in very safe hands - and will be right as rain in no time. Better he has this done at such a young age than later.

[mycats]

Cant add anything else about the operation, though he will be fine. But just wanted to say, my son was attacked by a dog when he was seven and had to be put under anesthetic to let the plastic surgeon stitch up his face. I was perfectly calm (considering) right up until they gave him it and he just slumped unconcious. I was sobbing! lol They doctors were all VERY nice about it and said not to worry or be embarrased. It is scary but dont feel silly if you cry. he will be fine, best of luck to your wee boy x