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

BackgroundThe surgical approach for high-level intra-abdominal testis (IAT) is variable. While most pediatric urolo-gists 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.ObjectiveThis study compares the overall success rates, at-rophy rates, retraction rates, and operation times of the two procedures to assist surgeons with devel-oping procedure strategies.MethodsDatabases 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 hetero-geneity were calculated.ResultsThe Shehata technique demonstrated better per-formance than staged FSO regarding the overall success and atrophy rate, while the retraction rate and operation time had no statistical difference. ConclusionsThis 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 cred-ible analysis.