Orchiectomy is a minimally invasive surgery in which a surgeon removes one or both the testicles of an individual. It can be for the treatment or prevention of testicular cancer, male breast cancer, and prostate cancer. orchiectomy is a suitable surgery for transgender women, facilitating their transition. The removal of testicles may be needed after a severe trauma caused by sports activities or accidental injuries. Most risk factors of orchiectomy are associated with the reduction in testosterone levels.
How is orchiectomy performed? Before, during and after
The patient will undergo standard blood tests and other investigations to confirm that he is suitable for an orchiectomy. Before surgery, the patient will have to stop taking blood thinners such as aspirin. It will help reduce the chances of bleeding. The surgeon will counsel the patient regarding the possible effects of the surgery. The patient may consider the option of storing sperm in a sperm bank for future use.
The surgery will be performed under anaesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision through the scrotum to access the testis. They may remove one or both testicles, depending on the need. Prosthetic testicles are placed before closing the incision if required.
The patient may have to stay for a day in the hospital after surgery, although orchiectomy is an outpatient procedure. Doctors will recommend antibiotics for the prevention of post-surgical infections.
Cost of surgery in Hyderabad:
Rs 25000 to Rs 40000Â
Cost of surgery in India:
Rs 23000 to Rs 87000
Number of days in Hospital:
One day
Type of surgery:
MajorÂ
Anaesthesia type:
GeneralÂ
Recovery:
Up to two monthsÂ
Duration of the procedure:
30 to 60 minutesÂ
Surgery:
Minimally invasiveÂ
Risks and complications of orchiectomy
The majority of complications and risks in orchiectomy are because of the reduction in testosterone levels because the testes primarily produce testosterone. The long-term effects are more significant after the removal of both testicles. One may experience loss of muscle strength and fertility after surgery. There is a greater risk of cardiovascular diseases and psychological side effects such as depression after surgery. Orchiectomy severely affects reproductive health with the loss of libido. Hormonal side effects such as hot flashes and weight gain are common side effects of orchiectomy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Orchiectomy Surgery
Males with breast cancer or prostate cancer may require orchiectomy. The surgery involves the removal of testes. The hormone testosterone produced by the testicles is responsible for the rapid spread of cancer. Orchiectomy can retard the cancer spread with a reduction in testosterone levels. Transgender individuals transitioning from males to females require orchiectomy to suppress the production of male sex hormones. Removing a damaged testicle may be necessary if a surgical repair is impossible.
Showering is permissible 48 hours after surgery. Remove the bandage before taking a shower. Clean the incision with soap and water while taking a shower. Place cotton gauze over the incision as a protective cover. The gauze stays in its place because of the support of r undergarments.
The patient may sit after orchiectomy. Making use of a supportive dressing to protect the sutures is advised. It is better to restrict all physical activities for 48 hours after surgery.
A catheter is necessary for drainage of urine after orchiectomy. A surgeon places a catheter into the bladder during surgery. Doctors will remove the catheter after surgery when it is no longer required.
Orchiectomy is a minimally invasive surgery and is usually an outpatient procedure. One may have to stay for a few hours after the surgery. Sometimes, a surgeon may suggest an overnight stay.
Before orchiectomy, an individual should undergo routine investigations such as X-rays, blood tests and ECG. These tests are necessary to ensure that the person is medically fit for surgery. One should stop taking blood-thinning medications before orchiectomy as these may cause excessive bleeding during surgery. Psychological counselling is vital for individuals willing to have an orchiectomy for gender transition.
One can walk after orchiectomy but avoid physical movement for the first two days. Use of scrotal support to secure the gauze bandage is advisable while walking. Walking is a suitable exercise to restore well-being after surgery. Walking exercise four weeks after surgery is advised.
The majority of orchiectomy procedures require general anaesthesia. The patient will not be awake during orchiectomy if the surgeon uses general anaesthesia. the patient will remain awake if the surgeon chooses spinal anaesthesia.
Testicular surgery is a painful procedure, like any other surgery. General anaesthesia helps prevent pain during surgery. The patient may feel pain and discomfort for a few days after surgery. The doctor will prescribe pain-relieving medicine to relieve the post-operative pain.
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