Evaluation of testicular function in 1-2-year-old cryptorchid children with alterations of anti-mullerian hormone after various orchidopexy.

Abstract

This study assessed testicular function in children with cryptorchidism following different orchidopexy procedures by measuring serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). The aim was to identify clinical factors associated with testicular function recovery by comparing pre- and post-operative levels of AMH, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone (T), and testicular volume at various time points. This prospective observational cohort study included children aged 1 to 1.5 years diagnosed with cryptorchidism via physical examination and ultrasound. The study evaluated testicular function parameters before and after two different orchidopexy techniques, measured at five intervals. Serum AMH was the primary outcome, with FSH, LH, testosterone, and testicular volume as secondary measures. A control group of 57 healthy male infants aged 1 to 2 years was included for comparative analysis. A total of 138 patients were enrolled, with testicular function evaluated preoperatively and at 10 days, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months post-surgery. Preoperative AMH levels were significantly higher in unilateral compared to bilateral cryptorchidism (P < 0.05). Postoperatively, AMH levels increased by 3 months in children with palpable testicles and by 6 months in those with non-palpable testicles (P < 0.05), with no significant difference between groups at 6 months. Cases with intraperitoneal release procedures also showed significant AMH increases at 3 and 6 months (P < 0.05), and testicular function improved similarly across surgical techniques.

Conclusion: Orchidopexy can pose a risk of injury, emphasizing the need for careful treatment planning. While surgical technique did not significantly affect outcomes in children aged 1 to 1.5 years, serum AMH is a valuable tool for preoperative evaluation and prognosis in cryptorchidism.

What is known: •Cryptorchidism impairs testicular function.•Orchidopexy improves function but varies by technique and testicular position.

What is new: •AMH is a sensitive postoperative marker for testicular recovery.•Function improvement is consistent across surgical techniques, with intraperitoneal release showing significant AMH gains by 3-6 months.