Radical Inguinal Orchiectomy (Orchidectomy)

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What is Radical Inguinal Orchiectomy?

Orchiectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a testis (or testicle). In contrast to a simple orchiectomy where only the testis is removed, radical orchiectomy includes the removal of the testis and the spermatic cords (blood vessel and nerve bundles) that attach the testis to the body.
The spermatic cord is removed to prevent potential cancer cell spread. Inguinal means the incision (the cut) is made over the inguinal area (the groin and the lower abdomen). This procedure is usually used to remove a testicular cancer or mass.

General anesthesia is usually required and it is usually an outpatient procedure (going home the same day).

It usually takes less than an hour. However, if the patient also wants to have a placement of a testicular prosthesis, (Fig. 2) then it takes an additional 15 minutes.

As with all surgical procedures, Radical Inguinal Orchiectomy has some potential risks and complications. Risks and complications may include, but are not limited to bleeding, infection, injury to adjacent structures such as nerves and blood vessels, hematoma (collection of blood), numbness of the skin in adjacent areas, and hernia.

Do not take any blood thinning medications, including over the counter medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen for at least 1 week prior to the procedure
Normally, when the procedure is performed under general anesthesia, do not eat or drink 8 hours before the procedure
Bring a jock strap, athletic supporter, or snug briefs
Arrange for someone to give you a ride home

Of any and all allergies and medications that you are currently taking including over the counter medications (you should stop Aspirin immediately)

Testicular tumors grow quickly and it is advisable to have the procedure as soon as possible after a mass in the testis is discovered.

You will be brought into a recovery room where you will be watched for about 1.5 hours. You will usually be sent home with a prescription for pain medication and stool softeners. You will be wearing a jock strap/scrotal support/athletic supporter/snug underwear with gauze to put compressing pressure on the scrotum to avoid a hematoma (bleeding).

You should follow your doctor’s instruction for when to shower and if you need to apply an ice pack
Wear snug underwear or a scrotal support
Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise and constipation
Most men can begin working after 1-2 weeks. However, it is variable and you should forewarn your employer that you will be absent for 4-6 weeks.