Definition:
Orchiectomy is the surgical removal of one or both testicles. An orchiectomy is typically performed as a way to decrease the amount of testosterone in the body.
In the case of prostate cancer, testosterone is thought to promote the growth and spread of the disease. By eliminating the primary site of testosterone production in the body - the testicles - the growth of prostate cancer will typically slow down considerably or even stop.
Also Known As: Orchidectomy (in Britain)
