tes·tec·to·my (t s-tk t -m )n. See orchiectomy. |
orchiectomy [or″ke-ek´to-me]
excision of one or both testes, done when a testis is seriously injured or diseased (as in testicular cancer).
If both testes are removed (bilateral orchiectomy or castration), the ability to reproduce is ended. There is also a decrease in production of testosterone, and although bilateral orchiectomy does not interfere with the ability to have sexual intercourse, the loss of both testes can reduce sexual desire. When this occurs before puberty, it prevents the development of secondary sex characters because of testosterone deficit. Replacement therapy may be necessary to maintain a desirable level of the hormone. If the procedure is done after puberty, when the masculine characters have already developed, the effects are much less extreme.
If both testes are removed (bilateral orchiectomy or castration), the ability to reproduce is ended. There is also a decrease in production of testosterone, and although bilateral orchiectomy does not interfere with the ability to have sexual intercourse, the loss of both testes can reduce sexual desire. When this occurs before puberty, it prevents the development of secondary sex characters because of testosterone deficit. Replacement therapy may be necessary to maintain a desirable level of the hormone. If the procedure is done after puberty, when the masculine characters have already developed, the effects are much less extreme.
Patient Care. The patient having orchiectomy for treatment of testicular cancer will have special needs in addition to those expected in a cancer patient. He will need help in dealing with problems related to his masculinity, self-concept, and sexual activity. He should be given time to think about and discuss the effects of his surgery. The surgeon is responsible for informing the patient about the procedure and its anticipated long-term effects. The nurse and other health care personnel can clarify any information the patient and his family may have been unable to assimilate during their conference with the surgeon. All members of the health care team should know the expected prognosis and be prepared to answer the patient's questions truthfully and matter-of-factly. He will need an optimistic outlook and encouragement to deal with the future without being given false hope and unreasonable expectations for recovery from the effects of his therapy.
testectomy
the removal of a testis. Called also orchiectomy.
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