Orchiectomy

Testicular cancer is a relatively uncommon but treatable form of cancer. Early detection and treatment are crucial for optimal outcomes. At Urology Specialists of Ohio, we understand the importance of providing effective and compassionate care for men diagnosed with testicular cancer. Orchiectomy is a surgical procedure that may be recommended as part of a testicular cancer treatment plan.

What is Orchiectomy?

An orchiectomy is the surgical removal of one or both testicles. There are two main types of orchiectomy:

• Radical inguinal orchiectomy: This procedure removes the entire testicle and the spermatic cord, which contains blood vessels, nerves, and lymph vessels that drain the testicle.
• Subinguinal orchiectomy: This procedure removes only the testicle, sparing the spermatic cord.

When is Orchiectomy Performed?

Orchiectomy may be recommended in various situations for testicular cancer treatment:

• Diagnosis: To remove a testicle suspected to be cancerous for further examination to confirm the diagnosis.
• Primary treatment: To remove a cancerous testicle as the main treatment for early-stage testicular cancer.
• Adjuvant treatment: To remove the testicle after other treatments, such as chemotherapy, to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

What to Expect During Orchiectomy

Orchiectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. The specific surgical approach will depend on the type of orchiectomy being performed. In general:

• An incision will be made in the groin area.
• The surgeon will remove the testicle(s) and possibly surrounding tissues.
• The incision will then be closed with stitches.

Recovery After Orchiectomy

Recovery after orchiectomy is usually quick. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can resume normal activities within a few days. Testicular replacement with a prosthetic implant is an option for some men to improve cosmetic appearance after surgery. Our urologists at Urology Specialists of Ohio will discuss all aspects of recovery and answer any questions you may have.

Urology Specialists of Ohio: Your Partner in Testicular Cancer Care

At Urology Specialists of Ohio, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for men with testicular cancer. Our urologists have extensive experience in performing orchiectomy and will guide you through every step of the treatment process. We understand that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and we are here to support you throughout your journey to recovery.