• May 22, 2023
• Cancer (general), Treatments
• Bryn Mawr Urology
• 0 Comments

Testicular cancer is a disease of young men. Testicular cancer is a very treatable and curable condition but may require major surgery and even chemotherapy.

We are one of the hand-full of centers in this country and the only one in this area offering a laparoscopic RPLND. We perform this complex procedure through tiny keyhole incisions eliminating the need for large incision thus decreasing pain and allowing the patients to go home and return to normal activities much sooner.

Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection (RPLND)

Surgical removal of the lymph nodes from around the aorta and vena cava (the largest vein in the body) also known as retroperitoneal lymph node dissection or RPLND is a technically challenging but very effective procedure because testicular cancer often goes to these nodes first before spreading to other areas. The removal of these nodes often renders patients cured and eliminates the need for systemic chemotherapy.

Conventionally however, this surgery requires a very large incision which extends through the entire lenghth of the patient’s abdomen and causes significant pain. Fortunately, we are one of the hand-full of centers in this country and the only one in this area offering a laparoscopic RPLND.

We perform this complex procedure through tiny keyhole incisions eliminating the need for large incision thus decreasing pain and allowing the patients to go home and return to normal activities much sooner. If you have been diagnosed with testicular cancer and considering your treatment options, please contact our office for consultation to see if this minimally invasive option is right for you.

Surgery for Testicular Cancer

Primary treatment of testicular cancer generally involves surgical removal of the testicle through a small incision in the groin.

Depending on the type and stage of the testicular cancer, some lymph nodes also may be removed during a second operation called a Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection (RPLND). During this operation, the nerves that control ejaculation and fertility may become disrupted. Although nerves do not control a man’s ability to have normal orgasms or erections, injury may decrease his chances of fathering children. Men may consider sperm-banking (collecting and freezing sperm prior to testicular cancer treatment).

Surgeons are specially trained in performing nerve-sparing techniques to preserve fertility in men with testicular cancer.

Radiation Therapy and Chemotherapy for Testicular Cancer

Additional treatment for testicular cancer may include the use of radiation therapy (external beam) and/or chemotherapy. All types of testicular cancer are sensitive to chemotherapy, while only some types respond to radiation therapy.