Orchiolysis and pexy of undescended testis

In some cases, baby boys are born with undescended testicles, in which case your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure known as orchiopexy. During the procedure, the doctor will make a small incision in your child's groin, in the area in which the undescended testicles are typically located. The testicles are then repositioned and stitched into the correct place. The incision is stitched closed. It may take up to two weeks for your child to fully recover from the procedure.

De-torsion and pexy of testicular torsion (sometimes orchiectomy needed)

Testicular torsion refers to a condition that occurs when the spermatic cord is twisted, preventing normal blood flow to the testicles. The condition can cause considerable pain and lasting damage if it is not treated immediately. Your doctor is likely to recommend testicular torsion surgery. During the procedure, your doctor will make a small incision in the scrotum and reposition the twisted spermatic cord. Once the twisted testicle has been properly repositioned, your doctor will use a technique known as orchiopexy, during which the testicle is stitched to the scrotum.

Repair of traumatic rupture

Traumatic rupture to a testicle can occur as a result of blunt trauma and can cause considerable pain. In most cases, traumatic rupture requires immediate medical treatment and may require surgical repair. The type of surgery required will depend on the type and extent of the injury. If testicular torsion has occurred, your doctor will carefully rotate the scrotum in order to reposition it, while other surgical treatments may involve opening the scrotum and stitching the covering of the testicle together; removing parts of the testicle; or using a skin graft to repair a damaged testicle. It may be necessary to have an ultrasound test after the injury has been treated to allow your doctor to check for any other abnormalities that may have developed.

Biopsy as part of workup and treatment for male infertility

In cases of male infertility, your doctor may perform a testicular biopsy procedure in order to determine the possible cause of infertility. The purpose of this type of test is to ascertain whether or not you are able to father a child. During the procedure, your doctor will begin by cleaning the skin of the testicle with a sterile solution, before injecting a local anaesthetic into the scrotum. Your doctor will make a small incision in the scrotum and a testicular tissue sample will be taken for further testing in a laboratory. Tiny stitches are used to close the incision and the scrotum may be bandaged while it heals.

Radical orchiectomy (for testicular tumour)

If you have been diagnosed with a testicular tumour, your doctor may recommend a procedure known as radical orchiectomy, in order to prevent the cancer from spreading to other areas of the body. During the procedure, your doctor will make a small incision in your groin, and remove one or both or the testicles, as well as the spermatic cord. The incision is then stitched close. In some cases, your doctor may recommend chemotherapy or radiation treatment to ensure that any leftover cancer cells are eliminated.

Bilateral orchiectomy (for advanced / metastatic prostate cancer)

If you have been diagnosed with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer, your doctor may recommend a procedure known as bilateral orchiectomy. The procedure involves the removal of testicles and is performed in order to prevent the body from producing testosterone, thus inhibiting the spread of prostate cancer. It may take up to a month to recover from the surgery, but the treatment is generally very effective. Your doctor may recommend that you return for regular follow-up consultations and tests after the surgery to ensure that the cancer remains under control.

Repair of hydrocele

A hydrocele is a fairly common condition in newborn babies, and occurs when fluid builds up in the scrotum, causing swelling. Although a hydrocele is not painful, it is advisable to seek medical attention to ensure that there are no underlying conditions that may be causing the inflammation. In some cases, your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure known as a hydrocelectomy in order to remove the hydrocele. During the procedure, your doctor will make a small incision in the scrotum or lower belly, before draining the fluid from the scrotum. When the fluid has been removed, the empty sac is stitched closed.