TESTICLE REMOVAL

General Information

DEFINITION-Removal of one of the testicles (orchiectomy).

BODY PARTS INVOLVED-Scrotum; testicle; vas deferens; blood vessels and nerves in the scrotum.

REASONS FOR SURGERY-Cancer or gangrene of the testicle.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Adults over 60.
• Smoking.
• Chronic illness.
• Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES-Urologist or general surgeon.

WHERE PERFORMED-Hospital.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; x-rays; CT scan (See Glossary).
• After surgery: Blood studies.

ANESTHESIA

• Spinal anesthesia by injection.
• Local anesthesia by injection.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• An incision is made in the inguinal region or scrotum. The blood supply and nerves leading to the testicle are located and cut free.
• The testicle is cut free from surrounding tissue and removed.
• The skin is closed with sutures that will be absorbed by the body.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Surgical-wound infection.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY-3 to 6 days.

PROBABLE OUTCOME-Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 3 weeks for recovery from surgery. Removal of one testicle should not interfere with normal sexual function or the ability to have children.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• Apply an ice pack to the surgical area as needed for the first 24 hours after surgery to prevent excessive swelling.
• Use an electric heating pad, a heat lamp or a warm compress to relieve incisional pain beginning 24 hours after surgery.
• Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incision gently with mild unscented soap.
• Wear an athletic supporter for 4 to 6 weeks.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

† To help recovery and aid your well--

being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

• Avoid vigorous exercise for 6 weeks after surgery. > Resume driving 2 weeks after returning home. > Resume sexual relations when your doctor determines that healing is complete.

DIET-Clear liquid diet until the gastrointestinal tract functions again. Then eat a well--balanced diet to promote healing.

Call Your Doctor If

† You experience nausea, vomiting, or discomfort or difficulty in urination.

• Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.
• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.