Orchiectomy is the removal of one or both testicles. Testicles can be removed due to cancer, pain or injury. A radical orchiectomy is removal of the entire testicle and spermatic cord. A simple orchiectomy is removal of the testicle only. If one testicle is removed you will have a groin wound on that side. If both testes are removed you will have a scrotal incision.
After Surgery
You will have gauze dressing over the wound. Change this at least daily and if it gets wet.
If you have a small drain in the scrotum, it will be taken out in 1-2 days.
It is common to have scrotal bruising and swelling.
You may develop a marble sized “knot” in your scrotum where the testicle was removed. It may or may not go away. This is a normal. If it is a reaction to the stitches it may go away after weeks or months. If it is scar tissue it will not.
You will have pain pills for pain.
Incision Care
Wear a scrotal supporter for 3 days. This can help decrease swelling.
Keep your wound dry for 3 days. Then, you may shower. Wash your incision with a mild soap and water. Rinse well and gently pat dry. No hot tubs, bathtubs, or swimming pools until your incision is healed. That may be 2 weeks or longer.
Check your wound daily for signs of infection.
Increasing redness or warmth of wound
Pus-like drainage
Pain not controlled with pain pills
A bruise that is getting worse each day
Excess bleeding
Excess swelling
Temperature greater than 100.5º F by mouth for 2 readings, taken 4 hours apart
Activity
Do nothing more strenuous than moderate walking for 7 days
Do not lift more than 10 pounds for 7 days
Diet
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before surgery
After surgery you may eat whatever you like
Drink 8–10 glasses of fluid a day to aid healing
Do not drink alcohol for at least 24 hours or if you are taking narcotic pain pills
Follow-Up
You will have an incision check in 7-14 days. This visit will be made for you before you go home.
Phone Number
Urology Clinic: (608) 263-4757
After hours, weekends and holidays this connects to the message center.
Ask for the urology doctor on call or the doctor on call for Dr. ________________. Leave your name and phone number with the area code. The doctor will call you back.
Toll Free: 1-800-323-8942.