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Undescended testes (ectopic)

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

An ectopic testis has deviated from the normal path of descent after it has emerged through the external inguinal ring.

In order of frequency, it may be found:

  • in the superficial inguinal pouch which lies anterior to the external oblique aponeurosis
  • in the perineum
  • at the root of the penis
  • in the femoral canal

The ectopic testis cannot be pushed down into the scrotum. Unlike an incompletely descended testis, the ectopic one is usually well developed and histologically normal.

The main hazard is that it is liable to injury.

Treatment is by orchidopexy.


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