Orchiectomy for Prostate Cancer

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.

• Simple orchiectomy is the removal of both testicles through a cut (incision) in the front of the scrotum. If desired, artificial testicles (saline implants) can be put into the scrotum.
• Subcapsular orchiectomy is the removal of the tissue from the lining of the testicles where testosterone is made. This leaves a nearly normal-looking scrotum.

These methods work equally well for stopping the production of testosterone by the testicles. These surgeries are about as complicated as a vasectomy and take less than 30 minutes.

What To Expect

Orchiectomy can be done as an outpatient procedure or with a short hospital stay. You can typically resume regular activities in 1 to 2 weeks. And you can expect a full recovery in 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 may include:

• Sterility.
• Loss of sexual interest.
• Erection problems.
• Hot flashes.
• Larger breasts (gynecomastia).
• Weight gain.
• Loss of muscle mass.
• Thin or brittle bones (osteoporosis).