The word "orchectomy" refers to a surgical procedure that involves removing one or both testicles. The word is spelled as "or·che·cto·my," and its phonetic spelling is /ˌɔːrˈkɛktəmi/. "Or-" is pronounced as "awr," "che-" as "keh," "-cto-" as "ktuh," and "-my" as "mee." This word is a combination of two Greek words: "orkhē" which means testicle, and "-ektomē" which means surgical removal. It is important to spell this word accurately, especially for medical professionals who need to communicate clearly with their colleagues and patients.
Orchectomy is a medical term that refers to the surgical removal of one or both testicles, the male reproductive organs responsible for the production of sperm and sex hormones. Also known as orchiectomy or testectomy, orchectomy is a procedure usually performed to treat various medical conditions, including testicular cancer, testicular torsion (a painful twisting of the testicle), or certain hormone-related disorders.
Typically conducted under general anesthesia, orchectomy involves making an incision in the scrotum or the lower abdomen to gain access to the testicles. Depending on the reason for the surgery, either a unilateral orchectomy (removal of a single testicle) or a bilateral orchectomy (removal of both testicles) may be performed. In some cases, a partial orchectomy may be done to remove only a portion of a testicle while preserving as much normal tissue as possible.
After an orchectomy, patients may experience temporary discomfort, swelling, or bruising in the surgical area. Doctors generally prescribe pain medication and advise patients to wear supportive underwear or a scrotal support for a few weeks to aid in healing. In cases where both testicles are removed, the patient will become sterile and require lifelong hormone replacement therapy (testosterone) to maintain normal hormonal balance. However, advancements in medical technology have allowed for the possibility of preserving sperm for future use through cryopreservation before the surgery. It is essential for individuals undergoing orchectomy to consult with their doctors regarding potential complications and necessary post-operative care.
Orchidectomy.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "orchectomy" derives from the combination of two Greek roots: "orchis" meaning "testicle" and "ektomē" meaning "excision" or "removal". Hence, "orchectomy" refers to the surgical removal of one or both testicles.