Orchidectomy / Orchiectomy

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which specialist performs an orchidectomy?

An urologist performs an orchidectomy.

2. Is orchidectomy the same as castration?

Castration is the action where a person loses the ability to reproduce. It can be performed chemically, surgically or in other ways. Orchidectomy is surgical castration when both the testes are removed.

3. What are the indications for bilateral orchidectomy?

Bilateral orchidectomy is done to reduce the levels of testosterone. It is done to treat hormone-dependent prostate cancer and as part of male to female gender reassignment surgery.

4. How does orchidectomy help in prostate cancer?

Most patients report a dramatic improvement in their testosterone-dependent prostate cancer symptoms following orchidectomy as the source of testosterone is removed.

5. Is testicular cancer cured by orchidectomy?

The 5-year survival rate in early testicular cancer is 95% following orchidectomy. In advanced testicular cancer, the outcome is poor.

6. What happens following orchidectomy in male-to-female gender reassignment surgery?

Following orchiectomy as part of a sex change from male to female, there is a reduction in testosterone levels with consequently reduced sex drive and gradual reduction and loss of masculine characteristics such as beard growth.

7. Is orchidectomy a safe procedure?

Orchiectomy is a safe procedure with very low rates of morbidity and mortality. Patients who have orchiectomy as part of cancer therapy have a higher risk of dying from the cancer rather than the testicular surgery.

Similarly, the morbidity and mortality rates for persons having an orchiectomy as part of gender reassignment surgery are comparable to those for any procedure done under general or epidural anesthesia.

8. Are there any alternatives to orchidectomy procedure?

For testicular cancer, there are no effective alternative treatments to orchidectomy. Alternatives to orchidectomy in prostate cancer include hormonal therapy, radiation and chemotherapy. Persons wanting male-to-female gender reassignment surgery may undergo hormonal therapy with estrogen before asking for orchidectomy. Many persons defer surgery for a longer period of time due to financial reasons; some may opt to remain on estrogen therapy indefinitely without surgery.