Procedure prep
Fasting Before Orchidopexy (Undescended Testicle)
Orchidopexy brings an undescended testicle down into the scrotum and fixes it in place. It's a common, routine day-case operation in young boys under a general anesthetic. The main things for parents are the fasting times and gentle aftercare.
Fasting for this procedure
→ Get your exact fasting times with the calculator
Medicines to check
- Most children take no regular medicines — tell the team about any they do take.
- Children's pain relief (paracetamol/ibuprofen) — ask what's allowed and when.
- A numbing block or caudal is often given during the anesthetic for pain relief — ask about it.
- Mention any allergies, asthma, or family reactions to anesthesia.
When this surgery may be delayed
- A cold, cough, fever or chest infection — surgery is often postponed for children's sensitive airways
- A skin infection or nappy rash in the groin or scrotum
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Your child ate or drank outside the fasting times
- Your child seems generally unwell on the day
Reports & documents to carry
- Photo ID and the hospital paperwork or appointment letter
- Your child's red book / health record and any medicine details
- Clinic letters and any ultrasound results
- Loose clothing, spare nappies or underwear, and a comfort toy
- A snack and drink for after, and a ride home
What to ask your anesthesia team
- What are my child's exact fasting times?
- Will a pain-relief block be used during the anesthetic?
- What activity should my child avoid while healing?
- How do I care for the small wounds and keep them clean?
- When is the follow-up to check the testicle's position?
Your prep checklist
Tick things off as you sort them — saved on this device only, nothing is sent anywhere.
A general guide — your hospital's own instructions always come first.
Frequently asked questions
Is orchidopexy a day-case operation?
Usually yes — most boys go home the same day once they've woken up properly, had something to eat and drink, and passed urine comfortably. It's a routine operation, and a numbing block given during the anesthetic means many children wake reasonably comfortable.
What activities should my child avoid afterward?
For a couple of weeks, gentle play is fine but avoid straddling toys (bikes, ride-ons), rough play and swimming until the wounds have healed, to protect the repair. Your team will give specific advice based on your child's age and the surgery.
Why is it important to treat an undescended testicle?
Bringing the testicle into the scrotum in early childhood supports its normal development and later fertility, and makes it easier to examine in the future. Your surgeon will explain the timing and reasons for your child, and arrange a follow-up to confirm the testicle stays in the right place.