WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

What do I need to know about a testicle biopsy? A testicle biopsy is a procedure to remove a sample of tissue from one or both testicles. It may be used to find the cause of infertility, to remove sperm, or to check a lump in your testicle.

How do I prepare for a testicle biopsy? Your healthcare provider will talk to you about how to prepare for the procedure. He may tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your surgery. He will tell you what medicines to take or not take on the day of your surgery.

What will happen during a testicle biopsy?

• You may be given local anesthesia to numb the surgery area. With local anesthesia, you may still feel pressure or pushing during surgery, but you should not feel any pain. You may instead be given general anesthesia to keep you asleep and free from pain during surgery. Your healthcare provider may insert a needle into your testicle. The needle is attached to a syringe. Cells or sperm are drawn into the syringe. The needle will then be removed and the skin covered with a bandage.
  
  
• Your healthcare provider may do an open biopsy. He will make a small incision on the skin that covers the testicles. He may make another incision in the testicle and take a sample of tissue through the incision. Sometimes a groin incision is made to get to the testicle. He will close the incisions with stitches and cover the area with a bandage. The sample taken will be sent to a lab for tests.

What are the risks of a testicle biopsy? You may be sore in the area where the biopsy was done. You may bleed more than expected or get an infection. Your testicle may need to be removed.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.