Laparoscopic Orchiopexy: Use of a Hitch Stitch

Contributors: John Paddack (University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences)

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The percutaneous hitch stitch, a commonly described technique for elevation of the ureteropelvic junction during laparoscopic pyeloplasty, allows for easier dissection and suturing. We have adapted this technique to laparoscopic orchiopexy.

METHODS: The technique described was used for testicular retraction during three consecutive cases of right-sided intraabdominal testicle

RESULTS: There were three cases of non palpable testicle, mean age 31 months (range 22-42). Testicles were all within 3 cm of internal ring on laparoscopy. In all cases, testicle was placed in subdartos pouch in single stage, without division of the spermatic vessels. There were no complications.

CONCLUSIONS: The percutaneous hitch stitch is a simple modification to the traditional laparoscopic orchiopexy. It provides atraumatic retraction of the intraabdominal testicle and facilitates dissection of spermatic vessels from the posterior peritoneum.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.17797/n1nnrufxpt