Abdominal Cryptorchid Orchiectomy in Dogs

Abdominal cryptorchid orchiectomy in dogs is a surgical procedure used to correct canine cryptorchidism, a condition in which one or both of a male dog’s testicles fail to descend into the scrotum. 

Left untreated, a cryptorchid dog can develop testicular cancer within the undescended testicle that can quickly spread to other organs of the body. Irregular testicles can also cause hormone imbalances with affect the bone marrow, which can lead to injury or early cases of arthritis. An abdominal cryptorchid orchiectomy must be treated by a veterinary surgeon in order to place one or both of the undescended testicles in the scrotum. 

Prior to conducting the abdominal cryptorchid orchiectomy, tests will be performed to ensure the canine is healthy enough to undergo surgery. A chemistry profile will tell the veterinarian how the internal organs are functioning, which is important when a surgical procedure needs to be performed. If the dog is in good health, the surgical procedure will proceed with a pre-sedative drug to prepare the canine for the procedure. During the procedure, the canine will remain relaxed and comfortable with a gas anesthetic paired with oxygen.

1. The canine will be placed in dorsal recumbency once he is sedated. The abdominal area will be shaved, cleansed, and draped to prepare the dog for aseptic surgery.
2. The abdomen will be palpated to determine where the incision should be placed. 
3. Once the area is determined, a 6-10cm incision will be made in the ventral abdomen, about 3-4cm lateral to the prepuce. 
4. The subcutaneous tissues will be incised to expose the fascia of the rectus abdominus muscles using a scalpel. 
5. A small nick incision will be made in the fascia to allow the surgeon to continue the opening using scissors. 
6. The peritoneum will be incised, laparotomy sponges will be placed on the body wall and the abdominal cavity will be opened. 
7. The vas deferens will be followed to locate the testicle, which will be ligated with absorbable sutures. 
8. The testicle will be removed and the abdomen will be closed. 

The efficacy of an abdominal cryptorchid orchiectomy in dogs varies. In most cases, this surgical procedure is an effective way to treat abdominal cryptorchidism. 

After the abdominal cryptorchid orchiectomy is performed, postoperative pain is controlled through a combination of long-acting anesthetics, opioids, and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Antibiotics may also be given during the canine’s recovery period. 

Like all forms of pet-related surgical procedures, the cost of an abdominal cryptorchid orchiectomy in dogs can vary from one veterinary hospital to another. The cost of an abdominal cryptorchid orchiectomy can cost $100 to $350 depending on individual dog’s condition. 

An abdominal cryptorchid orchiectomy procedure has been associated with life-threatening complications. If the surgical technique was not conducted properly, the ureters and bladder can be damaged, or the prostate could be removed. Traditional surgery rarely poses a risk for these types of surgical errors, but dog owners should be aware of the possibility even if the chance is minimal. 

Canine cryptorchidism is a genetic predisposition that can easily pass down to offspring, which is why cryptorchid dogs should not be allowed to reproduce. Common dog breeds affected by this condition include Miniature Schnauzers, Chihuahuas and Cocker Spaniels. The best way to prevent this condition from spreading is to discourage a cryptorchid dog from breeding or neuter the dog.