Compared outcomes of high-level cryptorchidism managed by Fowler-Stephens orchiopexy versus the Shehata technique: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: The surgical approach for high-level intra-abdominal testis (IAT) is variable. While most pediatric urologists prefer staged Fowler-Stephens orchiopexy (FSO), Shehata publicized a novel approach-known as staged laparoscopic traction orchiopexy (SLTO) or the Shehata technique-to better manage IATs.

Objective: This study compares the overall success rates, atrophy rates, retraction rates, and operation times of the two procedures to assist surgeons with developing procedure strategies.

Methods: Databases were searched for relevant literature involving these two approaches, and studies meeting the eligibility criteria were involved; RevMan 5.4 was used to conduct this meta-analysis. The relative risk (RR), weighted mean difference, 95% confidence interval (CI), p-value, publication bias, and heterogeneity were calculated.

Results: The Shehata technique demonstrated better performance than staged FSO regarding the overall success and atrophy rate, while the retraction rate and operation time had no statistical difference.

Conclusions: This study revealed that the Shehata technique may be an alternative to staged FSO for managing high-level IATs. Additional high-quality studies regarding the Shehata technique, as well as a long-term follow-up, are required for further and more credible analysis.