Professional
Technical
IVT
orchiectomy
Pronunciation: /ˌɔːrkiˈɛktəmi/
Surgical removal of one or both testicles, typically for cancer treatment.
Full Definition
The surgical excision of one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) testicles, performed through an inguinal approach for suspected testicular cancer to prevent tumor seeding. Radical inguinal orchiectomy includes removal of the testicle, epididymis, and spermatic cord up to the internal inguinal ring. This procedure serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, providing tissue for histopathologic diagnosis while removing the primary tumor source.
Usage
Usage note: Both 'orchiectomy' and 'orchidectomy' are acceptable spellings.
In Context
- "Radical inguinal orchiectomy revealed embryonal carcinoma with vascular invasion." — Pathology report
- "Bilateral orchiectomy may be considered for hormone-sensitive prostate cancer." — Treatment guideline
Also known as
orchidectomy
castration
Don't confuse with
orchiopexy
orchidopexy