PROCEDURE FOR TESTICULAR CANCER

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Once a testicular cancer is suspected on clinical assessment and scrotal ultrasound, most cases require a surgical removal of the testis. This procedure is called an orchidectomy. This procedure is both diagnostic and therapeutic at the same time. A small incision is made in the groin and the testis is removed from there. A biopsy is not a suitable option for testicular cancer, as there is a risk of spreading the cancer cells. 

After the orchidectomy, we then classify your risk based on the type of cancer, and the stage and grade of the disease. Many cases can be safely monitored with surveillance programs. In some patients, further treatment with chemotherapy may be required to reduce the risk of recurrence in the future. 

This may affect your fertility, and Mr Aw will discuss further options of sperm banking with you.

Preparing for your surgery

If you are advised that you are undergoing an orchidectomy, please inform the clinic if you are:

• On blood thinning medications
• Concerned about fertility and wishes to have sperm banking prior

Risks of surgery

• Bruising: this is normal and can take a couple of weeks to resolve. Supportive underwear helps to provide support and compression
• Wound issues: wound pain can be managed with simple painkillers (paracetamol, Nurofen). Wound infection can occur in less than 5% of cases
• Bleeding: this is rare but bleeding can occur in the surgical area and you may need further procedure to rectify this

Recovery after your surgery

• You will most likely be able to return home on the same day. 
• The stitches are self-dissolving.
• Please keep the dressing on for 5 days. You may wipe the surrounding area with a moist towel 
• Wear supportive underwear to help with the swelling and bruising
• No heavy lifting >6kg for 4 weeks and no driving for 2 weeks
• You may resume sexual activity after 1 week, and if you feel comfortable
•  You will receive an appointment to within 2-3 weeks following the procedure.   If you do not receive an appointment, please call the clinic on (08) 6317 3464. 

When should you be concerned?

There are some things to look out for as you recover after your surgery. These include symptoms like:

• Unable to pass urine
• Pus discharge or increasing redness in the surgical wound
• Fever with a temperature >38 degrees

If any of the above symptoms occur, please contact the clinic on (08) 6317 3464 during the hours of 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday. For medical emergencies after hours, go to your local emergency department.