Surgery for cryptorchidism

To move an undescended testicle into the scrotum, surgery, also known as orchidopexy, should be done by the time the child is one year old, or no later than 18 months.

The surgery is called an orchidopexy.  During this procedure, the doctor will carefully move the testicle into the scrotum and securely place it in the right position. This helps the healthy development of the testicle. 

If the testicle is hidden and can’t be felt, the surgery will be done using a tiny camera called laparoscopy. The camera is inserted through a small cut in the abdomen, below the umbilicus (belly button), to find the testicle. Your boy will be asleep under general anaesthesia during the surgery. Laparoscopy is the best way to find the testicle if it’s in the abdomen. Whenever possible, the doctor can move it into the right position. This might require one or two surgeries. 

If your boy is already a teenager and still has one normal testicle and one testicle still in the belly, doctors may suggest removing the hidden testicle because it has a higher risk of developing testicular cancer later in life.

This chapter contains general information about cryptorchidism. If you have any specific questions about cryptorchidism you should consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider. No website or leaflet can replace a personal conversation with your doctor.

Last updated: July 2026

Reviewed by (2026 update): 

• Dr. Uchenna Kennedy (EAU Guidelines Panel on Paediatric Urology)