Orchidopedy Discharge information GHPI0984_04_09

Your child has been admitted for an
operation for undescended testis.
Usually this is because the testis has
been undescended since birth and it
is necessary to place it in the scrotum
partly to help its function but also
because it is more comfortable in that
position.
The Operation
Your child will have a general
anaesthetic as well as some local
anaesthetic to reduce post operative
discomfort.
The undescended testis is treated by
detaching it from the surrounding
structures within the groin in order to
give greater length to the spermatic
cord so that the testis can then be
placed within the scrotum.
Occasionally there is a hernia present
and this is dealt with at the same time.
The operation is done initially through a
small incision in the groin to release the
testis and then a further small incision
in the scrotum in order to allow the
testis to be drawn down into the correct
position and gently anchored there.
The incisions are closed with dissolving
stitches.
After the Operation
Your child will remain in the theatre
recovery area for a period of time and
you will be able to join him there and
then accompany him back to the ward.
When he has recovered from the
anaesthetic he will be able to drink
and eat. When he has been able to
pass urine and any pain or discomfort is
under control he will be allowed home.
After Discharge
Your child may have some bruising and
swelling from the operation but this
should settle within a few days.
You will be advised about school and
physical activity before discharge.
Simple pain killers including
Paracetamol and Ibuprofen can be used
until the discomfort has settled.
You may be contacted by the ward
to check that no problem has arisen
immediately following the operation.
If you have concerns you should
contact either the children’s ward
or your doctor’s surgery. Hospital
follow up may be required and will be
arranged appropriately.
Contact details
Battledown ward (Cheltenham General
Hospital): 08454 224129
Childrens in-patients (Gloucestershire
Royal Hospital): 08454 228309