An orchidectomy procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour. The specific time will vary depending on the surgeon’s experience and the patient’s individual anatomy.
The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, so the patient will be asleep during the surgery. The surgeon will make an incision in the groin or scrotum and remove one or both testicles. The incision is then closed with stitches.
After the surgery, the patient will be taken to the recovery room to wake up and be monitored. They may be able to go home the same day, but some patients may need to stay overnight in the hospital.
The recovery time for an orchidectomy is typically about two weeks. The patient will need to wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling. They may also experience some pain, which can be managed with pain medication.
Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within two weeks of surgery. However, it is important to avoid strenuous activity for a few weeks.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind after an orchidectomy:
- You may experience some bleeding or bruising at the incision site. This is normal and should go away on its own within a few days.
- You may have some pain, which can be managed with pain medication.
- You may have some swelling, which can be reduced by wearing a compression garment.
- You may have some difficulty urinating, which should improve over time.
- You should avoid strenuous activity for a few weeks.
The duration of an orchidectomy procedure, also known as testicle removal or orchiectomy, can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the surgeon’s experience, and whether one or both testicles are being removed. Generally, an orchidectomy is a relatively straightforward surgical procedure, and the time it takes to complete can range from approximately 30 minutes to an hour.
The surgical steps involved in a typical orchidectomy may include anesthesia administration, making an incision in the scrotum, isolating and cutting the vas deferens (the duct that carries sperm), and removing one or both testicles. Once the testicle(s) is removed, the surgeon closes the incision with sutures or surgical staples.
The procedure can be performed as an outpatient surgery, which means the patient can go home on the same day after the surgery, although they may need some time in a recovery area after the procedure to monitor their vital signs and ensure they are waking up comfortably from anesthesia.
The actual time spent in surgery may be influenced by various factors, including the surgeon’s experience, the patient’s anatomy, any existing medical conditions that might affect the surgery, and any additional procedures that may be performed simultaneously.
Before the surgery, the surgical team will provide the patient with specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, including any pre-operative requirements and information about the expected duration of the surgery. Patients are advised to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and successful procedure.
It’s essential to remember that while the duration of the orchidectomy procedure is relatively short, the decision to undergo the surgery is significant, particularly for those considering it for gender-affirming purposes. Patients should have a thorough discussion with their healthcare provider, including psychologists and gender specialists, to ensure they fully understand the implications and potential outcomes of the surgery before making a decision.