PEDIATRIC LAPAROSCOPY FOR NONPALPABLE TESTES WITH NEW MINIATURIZED INSTRUMENTS

New miniaturized pediatric telescopes (1.9 or 3.5 mm) and reusable ins truments (3.5-mm trocars, scissors, graspers) were used for the first time in a prospective study to evaluate handling safety and efficacy i n laparoscopic diagnosis of unilateral nonpalpable testes. The results were confirmed during the same anesthesia by open operation for eithe r orchiopexy or removal of rudimentary spermatic cord structures. Lapa roscopy in 13 boys revealed one abdominal testis, 5 vanishing testes, and 7 cases of inguinal retention associated with an open inner inguin al ring, The illumination and detail resolution of the minitelescope w ere excellent. The 3.5-mm instruments were fully functioning with rega rd to tissue dissection. No complications occurred. Without technical disadvantages but with increased safety for the patient, the new minia turized pediatric laparocopic instruments indeed realize a step forwar d to minimal invasion in infants and children.