Testicular Cancer
Early Detection Saves Lives
Overview
Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer arises from abnormal cell growth within the testicle, resulting in the formation of a tumor. This occurrence is considered rare; the American Cancer Society estimates one in every 250 males will develop testicular cancer at some point during their lifetime.
Testicular cancer typically carries a favorable prognosis with high curability rates. The majority of testicular cancers begin in germ cells, which produce sperm. It’s also possible, though rare, for testicular cancer to form in the cells producing testosterone (called Leydig cells) and cells supporting normal sperm growth (called Sertoli cells).
Treatments
Testicular Cancer Treatment
Treatment for testicular cancer is based on several factors, including the specific type of cancer identified, individual symptoms, familial medical history, and relevant risk factors. Upon examination, your Nebraska Urology provider may conduct a comprehensive assessment involving blood tests and serum tumor marker evaluations, as well as a testicular ultrasound, to determine the cancer cell subtype and assess potential metastasis.
Following standard protocols similar to other malignancies, your provider will assign a precise stage and collaborate with our oncology specialists to devise an optimal treatment strategy. An orchiectomy, a procedure to remove the testicle, might be done to treat early- or late-stage testicular cancers. Other treatments might include testis-sparing surgery, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, and chemotherapy or radiation. Your Nebraska Urology provider will explore and explain your options to find the right treatment for you.
Your Visit
Learn about what you should bring to your appointment and locate forms, registration packets, and other patient resources.
Symptoms
Testicular Cancer Symptoms
A painless palpable lump within the testicle might be a sign of testicular cancer. You might also experience:
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Testicular swelling, either accompanied by discomfort or occurring independently.
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A sensation of heaviness or increased weight in the testicular region.
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A dull, persistent ache or pain localized to the testicle, scrotum, or groin.
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Noteworthy changes or tenderness observed in male breast tissue.
DISCLAIMER: The symptoms listed are for informational purposes only and do not necessarily indicate the presence of a specific medical condition. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Any decision regarding medical care should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider based on individual circumstances and medical history.
Expert Urology Providers in Nebraska
Our urologists expertly diagnose and treat the full spectrum of urology conditions. Beyond their expertise, open communication and empathy guide our approach to patient care.
By offering advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgical procedures, and innovative targeted therapies, our providers offer forward-thinking care for the best possible outcomes.
Participating in clinical trials is one of the ways we stay at the forefront of research. We partner with Be Well Clinical Studies to improve patient outcomes.
What Our Patients Say
Learn about our approach to compassionate scrotal and testicular care.
Need help? Visit our FAQ.
I still have questions about my procedure or have concerns to discuss.
You may call 402-421-8899 if your questions are related to your planned procedure, procedure instructions, postoperative care, etc. This will connect you with our surgery preadmission nurse. If your questions is more general or related to your clinic appointment or if you are calling for procedure results, please call 402-489-8888 to speak with a clinic nurse.
Will my family members be allowed in the pre-op or recovery area?
In general, we believe that it is important for family members to be able to be present as much as possible in the preop and recovery phases of care. Patient safety, visitor safety, patient privacy and confidentiality are also important, so we entrust this to the discretion of our nursing staff. In general, we ask that no more than two family members/visitors be present to accompany a patient.
Can my driver leave the center while I am in surgery?
Minor/pediatric patients are required to have a responsible adult in the center with them at all times.
We do request that, whenever possible, your escort remain at the center until you are ready to leave. It is acceptable if they have a short errand to make and will return immediately prior to you being ready for discharge. If your driver leaves the center, we must have a phone number to reach them.
Can I wear my dentures during my procedure?
If you are having general anesthesia, we will request that you remove your dentures just prior to going into the operating room. They will be given back to you as soon as you are awake. This is due to the possibility of bending or breaking during your procedure when you will not be able to protect the dentures. If you are having only topical anesthesia, you may keep your dentures intact.
What if I feel sick in the days leading up to my procedure?
Please call our preadmission nurse at 402-421-8899 to discuss your procedure and current illness or symptoms. Our nurse will work closely with your surgeon to determine if there is a need to reschedule.
How soon can I go back to work?
Your ability to return to work will be determined by your surgeon. You are encouraged to discuss them with him/her at your appointment. If needed, a release can be provided to you for the day of the procedure and FMLA/disability forms can be completed by clinic personnel. There is a nominal fee, and it may take up to 1 week for completion.
Do I need a driver?
We do advise that you have someone available to drive you in some cases. If you are receiving general or moderate/IV anesthesia or if you take sedating medication, you must have a driver for your safety. For procedures that are scheduled without anesthesia (i.e. cystoscopy, prostate biopsy, vasectomy, etc.) you may drive yourself as long as you feel comfortable doing so.
Will I need pre-testing before my surgery?
Depending on your procedure and overall health, you may need pre-operative testing and/or an appointment with a primary provider to ensure that you are healthy and safe to undergo a procedure. This will be determined by your surgery and anesthesiologist prior to surgery.
