Understanding Epididymectomy
An epididymectomy is a surgery to remove the epididymis. An epididymis is a tube that holds sperm. You have two of these tubes, one in the back of each testicle.
How to say it
ehp-ih-dihd-uh-MEHK-tuh-mee
Why epididymectomy is done
You may need this procedure for a number of reasons. These include:
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An injury to the groin area
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An infection or pus-filled lump (abscess) in the epididymis that is hard to treat
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A tumor or large fluid-filled sac (cyst) in the epididymis
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Long-term (chronic) pain, such as after a vasectomy
How epididymectomy is done
This procedure is often done on an outpatient basis. That means you can go home afterward. During the procedure:
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You are given medicine to make you drowsy or fall asleep. You won’t feel pain.
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The surgeon makes a cut (incision) into your scrotum. They find the epididymis.
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The surgeon removes part or all of the epididymis.
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The surgeon closes up the incision with stitches (sutures) or surgical glue.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Callie Tayrien RN MSN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Marc Greenstein MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed:
12/1/2022
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