THE REMNANT ORCHIECTOMY

Purpose: We examined and characterized the histological features of re mnant testicular tissue distal to the internal inguinal ring in boys w ho underwent exploration for a nonpalpable testis. Materials and Metho ds: The medical records and histology of 48 boys (50 remnants) who und erwent exploration for a nonpalpable testis during a 10-year period we re reviewed in detail. Results: Remnant tissue was characterized by ev idence of ischemia and necrosis (scar, calcification, hemosiderin and hyalinization) suggestive of a vascular accident. Viable germ cells we re identified in 5 remnants. Conclusions: A 10% incidence of viable ge rm cells in remnant testicular tissue warrants exploration and removal of all remnant tissue in boys who undergo exploration for a nonpalpab le testis.