Treatment of cryptorchidism. Long-term prospective study.

We have presented preliminary findings on a long-term prospective study designed to (1) assess timing of orchiopexy, (2) eliminate unnecessary abdominal exploratory surgery, and (3) determine efficacy of orchiopexy on subsequent fertility and on malignant degeneration. Some suggestions for the management of this common congenital defect can be provided, but long-term results are lacking. A significant drop-out rate from this prospective study is expected with time; therefore, large patient numbers are needed to draw any valid conclusions at the time of postpubertal reassessment.