Important decision
Removal of both appendages stops the release of sperm, although hormonal function and potency are fully preserved. Therefore, the operation is performed only when the possibilities of conservative treatment have been exhausted and after discussing reproductive plans: men planning children are offered cryopreservation of sperm or obtaining sperm for IVF before the operation. The course of the operation is the same as for unilateral, on both sides; recovery - 2 weeks.
Indications
- epididymal cyst (spermatocele) more than 1.5–2 cm, painful or growing;
- chronic epididymitis with pain that cannot be treated;
- tuberculous epididymitis, post-traumatic changes in the appendage;
- abscess of the appendage after purulent epididymitis;
- pain after a vasectomy (post-vasectomy syndrome).
Effect on fertility
The epididymis is part of the sperm's path from the testicle. Removing one epididymis stops sperm from coming out of that side, but the second testicle ensures fertility. Microsurgical excision of the cyst, on the contrary, preserves the patency of the ducts - this is important for young men planning children, and makes the operation preferable to sclerotherapy of the cyst.
