Testicular Fixation After Hernia Surgery: What You Need to Know

After hernia surgery, the testicles are fixed!

Dear Doctor: When I was 12 years old, I underwent surgery for a left inguinal hernia.
After the surgery, I noticed that my left testicle was fixed in place and could not move (the right testicle, which did not undergo surgery, can move).
Additionally, upon examination, the left testicle appears normal, and there have been no issues over the years, with no recurrence of the hernia.
Could you please clarify whether the testicle is supposed to be fixed after hernia surgery, or if I might be experiencing some kind of problem?

Xiao Zheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/21

Dr. Lai Ronghao reply Urology

Hello! It is best for you to visit the hospital for an examination to determine what the issue is.
This is a response from Dr.
Lai Rong-Hao, attending physician of the Urology Department at Hsinchu Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2004/12/21

More Info

After undergoing hernia surgery, particularly in the case of inguinal hernias, it is not uncommon for patients to experience changes in the mobility of the testicles. In your situation, where you had surgery at the age of 12, it is possible that the surgical procedure involved some degree of fixation of the testicle to the surrounding tissue. This is sometimes done to prevent recurrence of the hernia and to ensure that the testicle remains in the correct position within the scrotum.

During inguinal hernia repair, particularly with the use of mesh or other fixation techniques, the surgeon may manipulate the surrounding structures, including the spermatic cord and the testicle. This manipulation can lead to a situation where the testicle on the operated side may feel less mobile compared to the non-operated side. However, if the left testicle appears normal upon examination and you have not experienced any complications such as pain, swelling, or signs of infection, it is likely that this is a benign consequence of the surgical procedure rather than a pathological issue.

It is important to understand that the fixation of the testicle is not necessarily a problem unless it is accompanied by symptoms. The testicle's position can be influenced by various factors, including the surgical technique used, the healing process, and individual anatomical variations. In some cases, the fixation may be temporary, and mobility may improve over time, while in other cases, it may remain fixed.

If you have not experienced any adverse symptoms over the years, such as pain, discomfort, or changes in the size or shape of the testicle, it is likely that your situation is stable. However, if you are concerned about the mobility of your testicle or if you experience any new symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a urologist or your original surgeon. They can perform a physical examination and possibly imaging studies to assess the situation further.

In summary, while it is possible for the testicle to be fixed in place after hernia surgery, this does not necessarily indicate a problem, especially if there are no accompanying symptoms. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor your condition and address any concerns you may have.

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