Surgery for testicular cancer
Surgery to remove the testicle is usually the first treatment for testicular cancer. You might also need surgery to remove lymph nodes at the back of your tummy (abdomen).
Find out about the different types of surgery, and what to expect in hospital and after your operation.
Types of surgery for testicular cancer
The main operation is surgery to remove your testicle (orchidectomy). Your doctor might also recommend removing your lymph nodes at the back of your tummy (abdomen).
Removing a testicle (orchidectomy) for testicular cancer
The surgeon usually removes your testicle to diagnose the cancer. The operation is called an orchidectomy.
Removing lymph nodes for testicular cancer (retroperitoneal lymph node dissection)
You might need an operation to remove some lymph nodes from the back of your tummy. This operation is called a retroperitoneal lymph node dissection.
Preparing for testicular cancer surgery
Before your operation, you have tests to check your fitness and you meet members of your treatment team
On the day of your operation for testicular cancer
You have a general anaesthetic so you can't feel anything during the operation. This sends you into a deep sleep.
After surgery for testicular cancer
Your recovery time depends on what type of surgery you have. You can usually go home on the same day after surgery to remove your testicle.
Problems after surgery for testicular cancer
There is a risk of problems or complications after any operation. Many problems are minor but some can be life threatening. Treating them as soon as possible is important.
