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Treatment for testicular cancer

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

Your 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.

Before your operation for testicular cancer

Before your operation, you have tests to check your fitness and you meet members of your treatment team.

On the day of your testicular cancer surgery

There are things you need to do before you go to the theatre for your operation. Your nurse and surgeon will ask you questions and make sure you are ready for your operation.

After surgery for testicular cancer

Your recovery depends on the type of operation you have and your general health.

Last reviewed: 02 Jan 2025

Next review due: 02 Jan 2028

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