Name of the Procedure:

Orchiectomy, Partial
Also known as: Partial Orchiectomy

Summary

A partial orchiectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of part of one or both testicles. The procedure is typically performed to remove a tumor or abnormal tissue while preserving as much of the healthy testicle as possible.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Testicular tumors
• Benign growths or masses
• Trauma or injury to the testicle

Goals/Outcomes:

• Remove abnormal tissue or tumors
• Preserve healthy testicular tissue and function
• Potentially prevent the spread of cancer if present

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

• Presence of a palpable mass or lump in the testicle
• Pain or discomfort in the testicle
• Abnormal testicular ultrasound findings

Patient Criteria:

• Patients diagnosed with localized testicular tumors
• Those who wish to preserve testicular function and fertility

Preparation

Instructions:

• Fasting 6-8 hours before the procedure
• Adjustments to medications as directed by the healthcare provider

Pre-Procedure Assessments:

• Blood tests
• Testicular ultrasound
• Possibly MRI or CT scan for detailed imaging

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given general anesthesia or regional anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the scrotum to access the testicle.
3. The surgeon carefully removes the diseased or abnormal part of the testicle.
4. The remaining healthy tissue is repaired and left in place.
5. The incision is closed with sutures.

Tools and Technology:

• Surgical scalpel
• Scissors and forceps
• Sutures or surgical staples

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

A partial orchiectomy is usually performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon (Urologist)
• Nursing staff
• Anesthesiologist

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Pain or discomfort

Rare Complications:

• Anesthesia reactions
• Damage to surrounding tissues
• Testicular atrophy

Benefits

• Removal of abnormal or cancerous tissue
• Preservation of part of the testicle, potentially maintaining hormonal function and fertility
• Reduced risk of leaving malignant tissue behind

Recovery

• Rest and limited physical activity for several days
• Pain management with prescribed medications
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and discuss pathology results
• Most patients can resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks

Alternatives

Other Options:

• Radical orchiectomy (removal of the entire testicle)
• Radiation or chemotherapy (particularly for cancer)

Pros and Cons:

• Radical orchiectomy may be more definitive for cancer but results in loss of the entire testicle.
• Radiation/chemotherapy can be effective but may have more systemic side effects.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under anesthesia and feel no pain. Post-procedure, there may be mild to moderate pain or swelling in the scrotum, which can be managed with medication. Most patients recover well with minimal discomfort and can gradually return to normal activities within a couple of weeks.