Do they remove a testicle if it has testicular cancer?

Yes, a testicle may need to be removed surgically if it has testicular cancer. This surgical procedure is called a radical inguinal orchiectomy.

During a radical inguinal orchiectomy, the entire affected testicle, along with the spermatic cord and surrounding tissues, is surgically removed through an incision in the groin. The surgeon will carefully remove the testicle while preserving the blood vessels, nerves, and structures responsible for the production of sperm.

After the testicle is removed, it will be sent to a pathology lab for examination to confirm the diagnosis of testicular cancer and to determine the stage and type of cancer. The surgical removal of the affected testicle is a crucial step in the treatment of testicular cancer and aims to prevent the spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body.

Following surgery, the affected testicle cannot be replaced, and there may be some psychological and emotional adjustments to dealing with the loss of a testicle. Some men may consider reconstructive surgery or testicular prostheses to restore the appearance of the scrotum, if desired.