In most cases, the ability to have sexual relations is also not affected by the procedure. Orchiectomy Orchiectomy is a surgical procedure that completely removes the testicles. It is considered hormonal therapy because, like certain prescription drugs, orchiectomy also reduces hormone levels. In fact, LH-RH analog therapy has been shown to be comparable to orchiectomy in decreasing the body's supply of testosterone. Most patients prefer LH-RH analog therapy over orchiectomy to treat their prostate cancer.
Orchiectomy is a routine surgical procedure that usually has no long-term complications.
It gives an immediate and permanent reduction in testosterone. However, orchiectomy may require being hospitalized for approximately 2 days or more. Many patients respond favorably to orchiectomy, but for those patients for whom this surgical procedure fails, the operation is often viewed as unnecessary, expensive, and possibly psychologically damaging. Hot flashes, impotence, and loss of sexual desire are common side effects with orchiectomy. Cryosurgery Cryosurgery treats localized prostate cancer by freezing and destroying the prostate.