Orchiectomy (testicle removal surgery)

Orchiectomy is a surgical removal of testicles, which is usually prescribed if malignant tumors of the male genital organs are diagnosed (including prostate cancer). Removal of testicles leads to the cessation of testosterone production, which can stimulate the development of malignant tumors. Surgery is prescribed if sparing treatment is no longer effective.

Orchiectomy can be single or double -removal of one or two testicles, respectively. The best treatment is chosen by the doctor depending on the clinical picture. 

Indications for testicle removal surgery can be:

• malignant neoplasms of the male genital organs (prostate cancer, testicular tumors);

• serious injury;

• the necessity to reduce the production of testosterone;

• testicular atrophy due to varicocele or non-prolapse of the testicle into the scrotum;

• infectious diseases in the scrotum, complicated by extensive damage of the testicle and epididymis tissues.

Surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. During the operation the surgeon removes the testicle,   squeezes and tie spermatic cord is and bandaged. If necessary, the procedure is performed for the second testicle, after which the scrotum is sutured. Before the operation a patient undergoes a standard set of which help to make sure that there are no contraindications to the operation. Two weeks before surgery a patient has to stop taking any medications which are not agreed with the surgeon.

Orchiectomy usually takes 40-60 minutes. If there are no complications, the patient can be discharged from the hospital the same day after surgery. If necessary, the doctor may prescribe an inpatient stay in hospital under round-the-clock medical supervision. 

The consequences of a single orchiectomy do not make significant changes in the daily life of the patient. There may be some changes in endocrine profile, which can cause a decrease in libido, potential increase of osteoporosis, obesity, diabetes.

The consequences of double testicle removal surgery are more significant:

• infertility;

• decreased libido;

• significant hormonal changes (that’s why in some cases, after orchiectomy, doctors prescribe testosterone replacement therapy).

Double orchiectomy is prescribed in extreme cases when other methods of treatment have proved ineffective.

You can make an appointment for a urologic surgeon consultation at any convenient for you time by phone or using the form on our website.