RESUMO
Objective To evaluate the efficacy of laparoscopic first-stage Fowler-Stephens for high cryptorchidism. Methods Seven children with high cryptorchidism (10 testes) were enrolled in this study. After detecting the testicles under a laparoscope, we dissected the spermatic cord vessels. Then, the spermatic duct was separated, and the gubernaculum testis was retained. Afterwards, the first-stage orchidopexy was performed laparoscopically. Results Nine of the 10 testes were successfully placed into the scrotum by first-stage Fowler-Stephens. In one patient who had bilateral cryptorchidism, the left testis was placed into the scrotum at the second stage operation. The seven patients were followed up for 6-24 months (mean, 14 months). None of them had retraction or atrophy of the testis. Conclusions Laparoscopic first-stage Fowler-Stephens is effective for high cryptorchidism. The procedure is worth being widely used.