Surgical removal of a testicle (orchiectomy).

Orchiectomy may be indicated in cases of testicular cancer, or the presence of tumors or both.

Patients with testicular masses present with complaints of pain at the site of the testes or edema. They may also complain of back pain if the retroperitoneal area is involved.

Testicular ultrasound is indicated to identify the existence of masses.

Prior to surgery, exercises in deep breathing and coughing are taught, and the importance of early walking is accentuated. Pain control is important, and the patient is encouraged to ask for pain medications after surgery before pain becomes intense. The patient may have concerns about body image that should be addressed. The availability of testicular prostheses should be discussed.

Surgery done from the scrotal approach can cause complications. Tumors may spread once this area is invaded due to blood and lymphatic pathways that lead to the scrotal area. Patients should be monitored after surgery for incidence of relapse. Chest x-rays, physical examinations, and abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan may be indicated. The average time for relapse is 7 months. Late relapses of more than 2 years have occurred, but are rare.

• The new criteria for the Genitourinary Disease and Conditions body system became effective November 14, 2021.  Review both current and historic criteria prior to any reduction for disabilities established before that date.  38 CFR 3.951(a)

• When evaluating any claim involving loss or loss of use of one or more creative organs, refer to 38 CFR 3.350 of this chapter to determine whether the Veteran may be entitled to special monthly compensation. Footnotes in the schedule indicate conditions which potentially establish entitlement to special monthly compensation; however, there are other conditions in this section which under certain circumstances also establish entitlement to special monthly compensation.

• In cases of the removal of one testis as the result of a service-incurred injury or disease, other than an undescended or congenitally undeveloped testis, with the absence or nonfunctioning of the other testis unrelated to service, an evaluation of 30 percent will be assigned for the service-connected testicular loss. Testis, undescended, or congenitally undeveloped is not a ratable disability.