The surgical procedure for testicle removal is called an orchiectomy. It can be performed for a variety of reasons, including:

• Testicular cancer: This is the most common reason for orchiectomy. The surgeon will remove the testicle that has cancer, as well as the spermatic cord, which is a bundle of nerves and blood vessels that supplies the testicle.
• Undescended testicle: This is a condition in which one or both testicles do not descend into the scrotum. In most cases, undescended testicles will descend on their own by the time the child is 6 months old. However, if the testicles do not descend by this time, they may need to be removed.
• Infertility: In some cases, orchiectomy may be performed as a treatment for infertility. This is because the testicles produce sperm, and if the testicles are removed, the man will no longer be able to produce sperm.
• Transgender health: Orchiectomy may also be performed as part of the transition process for transgender men. This is because the testicles produce testosterone, and if the testicles are removed, the man’s testosterone levels will drop. This can help to feminize the body and make it more congruent with the man’s gender identity.

There are two main types of orchiectomy:

• Inguinal orchiectomy: This is the most common type of orchiectomy. The surgeon makes an incision in the groin and then removes the testicle.
• Laparoscopic orchiectomy: This is a less invasive type of orchiectomy. The surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen and then removes the testicle using a laparoscope, which is a thin tube with a camera on the end.

The type of orchiectomy that is performed will depend on the individual’s circumstances. Inguinal orchiectomy is typically the preferred option for most people. However, laparoscopic orchiectomy may be a better option for people who want a minimally invasive procedure or who have other medical conditions that make inguinal orchiectomy more difficult.

Orchiectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgery takes about 30 minutes to an hour. After surgery, the patient will stay in the hospital for a few hours or overnight. The recovery time for orchiectomy is usually about 1-2 weeks.

The risks of orchiectomy include:

• Bleeding: This is a rare complication, but it can occur.
• Infection: This is another rare complication, but it can occur.
• Nerve damage: This can cause numbness or tingling in the area around the incision.
• Pain: This is usually mild and can be managed with pain medication.

The surgical procedure for testicle removal, known as orchidectomy or orchiectomy, involves the surgical removal of one or both testicles. The procedure can be performed for medical reasons, such as the treatment of testicular cancer, prostate cancer, undescended testicles, or as a gender-affirming surgery for transgender women. The specific details of the surgery may vary based on the individual’s medical condition and the reason for the procedure. Below is an overview of the general steps involved in a typical orchidectomy:

1. Anesthesia: The patient will be given anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free during the surgery. The type of anesthesia used may vary, but it is typically either general anesthesia (where the patient is unconscious) or regional anesthesia (where only the lower part of the body is numbed).
2. Incision: The surgeon will make an incision in the scrotum to access the testicle(s). The size and location of the incision may vary based on the surgeon’s approach and the specific reason for the procedure.
3. Separation of the Vas Deferens: The vas deferens is the duct that carries sperm from the testicles to the urethra. During the orchidectomy, the surgeon will locate and isolate the vas deferens from the surrounding tissues. They will then cut and tie off the vas deferens to prevent sperm from reaching the semen.
4. Removal of the Testicle(s): After separating the vas deferens, the surgeon carefully removes the testicle(s) from the scrotum. In cases where both testicles are removed, the surgeon will perform the same procedure on the other side.
5. Closure: The incision in the scrotum is closed with sutures or surgical staples. The surgeon will take care to ensure proper wound closure to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.
6. Dressing and Recovery: The scrotum is typically dressed with a sterile bandage or dressing after the surgery. The patient will be monitored in a recovery area until they are awake from anesthesia and stable.
7. Post-operative Care: After the surgery, the patient will receive instructions on post-operative care, including wound care, pain management, and any restrictions on activities during the recovery period.

The duration of the surgery can vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether one or both testicles are being removed. In some cases, the procedure may be performed as an outpatient surgery, allowing the patient to return home on the same day.

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with orchidectomy, such as infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. However, the procedure is generally considered safe and is commonly performed for medical and gender-affirming reasons by skilled and experienced surgeons. Patients should discuss the potential risks and benefits of the surgery with their healthcare provider before proceeding with the procedure.