Babies: 9 - 12 Months
Options

Undescended testicle in 1-year-old

My 1-year-old just had his consult with a surgeon regarding his undescended testicle. Unfortunately, the testicle cannot be palpated so they will have to go in laparoscopically first to find it and then bring it down. There is no question about the surgery - he needs it to prevent other issues, such as cancer and infertility.

My problem is picking a surgeon. The one we saw today was very nice and had good bedside manner. He explained everything and answered our questions. Surgery would be in 3 weeks, which is great since they recommend the surgery before 12 months of age (and he will be 13 months then). However, once we left I decided to look the doctor up and saw that he just finished his fellowship last year. He graduated from medical school in 2009 - so it isn't like he is still a resident or anything but he doesn't have a TON of experience. 

I called the office to ask about scheduling with another doctor who was more experienced (it is an office with 4 doctors who do the surgeries). The lady talked to the Chief of Staff who said that he will be on the floor during the surgery and can make sure that he is assisting with my son's surgery if that helped me feel better. The other option would be to schedule with a different doctor (who has more experience) BUT the surgery wouldn't be until August, which isn't out of the question but is definitely later than I wanted as it is "better earlier than later." 

So - with that said - what would you do? Go with the first, less experienced doctor who will have a very experienced doctor with him or wait extra time and go with the other doctor? 

None of my kiddos have ever had surgery so it is a lot to take in...i'm a nervous wreck. Thanks. 

Re: Undescended testicle in 1-year-old

  • Options
    Wow That's intense! @hibabyhawaii sorry you're dealing w such a hard desicion. If the experienced doctor would be in the room while the less experienced doc did the procedure I would feel comfortable with that. Since you said the surgery is better earlier than later, and the more experienced will be in the room or floor I would keep the appointment you had set. You said you had a great consultation and vibe from the less exp doc, that sounds great already. Good luck in your decison and the surgery!
Sign In or Register to comment.
Choose Another Board
Search Boards
"
"