Surgery Overview
Orchiectomy is the removal of the testicles.
The penis and the scrotum, the pouch of skin that holds the testicles, are left
intact. An orchiectomy is done to stop most of the body's production of
testosterone, which
prostate cancer usually needs in order to continue
growing.
What To Expect After Surgery
Orchiectomy can be done as an
outpatient procedure or with a short hospital stay. Regular activities are
usually resumed within 1 to 2 weeks, and a full recovery can be expected within
2 to 4 weeks.
Why It Is Done
Orchiectomy may help relieve
symptoms, prevent complications, and prolong survival for
advanced prostate cancer. Radiation treatment is
sometimes needed also.
How Well It Works
Orchiectomy often causes the tumor
to shrink and relieves bone pain.
This surgery does not cure
prostate cancer, although it may prolong survival.
Risks
Orchiectomy causes sudden hormone changes in the
body. Side effects from hormone changes include:
- Sterility.
- Loss of sexual
interest.
- Erection problems.
- Hot
flashes.
- Larger breasts (gynecomastia).
- Weight
gain.
- Loss of muscle mass.
- Thin or brittle bones (osteoporosis).
What To Think About
Removing the testicles is one way
to cut down on testosterone and other male hormones, or
androgens. Taking medicine is another way to reduce
androgen levels in your body. Some men may prefer surgery over taking pills or
having injections. But if you choose to take medicine, you can stop taking the
hormone drugs. And the side effects from taking medicine may go away. An
orchiectomy is permanent.
Some men choose to have reconstructive
surgery after an orchiectomy, in which the surgeon replaces the testicles with
artificial testicles.
Complete the surgery information form (PDF)
(What is a PDF document?)
to help you prepare for this surgery.
