orchiectomy: Surgical removal of testicle

Orchiectomy is the surgical removal of one or both testicles, or testes, in the human male. It is also called an orchidectomy, particularly in British publications.

Talk to your physician about a testicular implant BEFORE your scheduled surgery. If you discuss this beforehand, you will not need a second surgery to receive the implant, as it can be done at the same time as the orchiectomy. Check out this article by Cleveland Clinic for more information and to decide if a testicular implant is right for you.

There is no effective alternative to radical orchiectomy in the treatment of testicular cancer; radiation and chemotherapy are considered follow-up treatments rather than alternatives. 

Radical orchiectomy requires general anesthesia. While operating time is different for each individual, the average operating time is approximately 1 hour. Your surgeon will make a four-inch incision in the inguinal area, identify, dissect and remove the diseased testicle.