Bilateral means both sides and orchidectomy is the removal of the testicles. So a 'Bilateral Orchidectomy' is when both of the testicles are removed through a small cut in the front of the scrotum.

This surgery is a form of hormone treatment for patients with prostate cancer. It is done to decrease the levels of the male hormone testosterone, which influences most prostate cancer growth. Testosterone is mostly made by the testicles so removing them also removes about 90% of the testosterone made by the body. The remaining testosterone can be controlled by tablets or injection therapy should the need arise.

Lowering the testosterone levels with a Bilateral Orchidectomy does not cure prostate cancer, but it may slow its growth and reduce its size which can sometimes hold the cancer in check for years.

After having the testicles removed hot flushes may occur. These are very similar to what is experienced by women around the menopause. This is due to the lowered levels of testosterone and comes over patients as a hot flushed feeling rising over the chest and face. Approximately 25% of patients experience significant hot flushes. If they become troublesome they can generally be controlled with a small dose of medication. Also after surgery many patients may notice a loss of the ability to have erections and also a significant decrease in sexual desire, however, approximately 20% of patients continue to have spontaneous erections. For those patients unable to get a natural erection after surgery it is possible in some cases to gain one with the use of tablets, pumps or penile injections. These options can be discussed further with your urologist should this be needed after surgery.

Other male characteristics such as your voice are unaffected by this surgery. Recovery is rapid and you should be able to return to your normal activities soon after your operation.