Undescended testicles

Children’s Hospital Boston is home to the world’s most extensive research enterprise at a pediatric hospital. 

We also have many partnerships with research, biotech and health care organizations, and we work together to find innovative ways to improve kids’ health. 

At Children’s, we are at the forefront of research into the best ways to better the long-term outlook for boys born with undescended testicles. We perform more laparoscopic surgeries each year than any other institution in New England. In fact, pediatric urologist Craig Peters, MD, performed the first-ever pediatric laparoscopy procedure to bring testicles down at Children’s. 

In addition, Children’s researchers are examining the hormonal mechanisms related to the normal descent of a testicle, with the ultimate goal of one day developing hormonal therapies that will make surgery unnecessary. 

Learn more about our research.

Clinical trials

Children’s is known for pioneering some of the most effective diagnostic tools, therapies and preventive approaches in pediatric medicine. A significant part of our success comes from our commitment to research—and to advancing the frontiers of health care by conducting clinical trials.

Children’s coordinates hundreds of clinical trialsat any given time.Clinical trials are studies that may involve:

• evaluating the effectiveness of a new drug therapy
• testing a new diagnostic procedure or device
• examining a new treatment method for a particular condition
• taking a closer look at the causes and progression of specific diseases

Children’s is involved in several multi-site clinical trials and studies focusing on pediatric urology. While children must meet strict criteria in order to be eligible for a clinical trial, your child may be a candidate for participation in a study. Before considering this option, you should be sure to:

• consult with your child’s treating physician and treatment team
• gather as much information as possible about the specific course of action outlined in the trial
• do your own research about the latest breakthroughs relating to your child’s condition

Taking part in a clinical trial at Children’s is entirely voluntary. Our team will be sure to fully address any questions you may have, and you may remove your child from any medical study at any time. 

Search current and upcoming clinical trials at Children’s                                                                       

Search the National Institute of Health’s list of clinical trials taking place around the world