Definition of Testicular biopsy:

Testicular biopsy is surgery to remove a piece of tissue from the testicles for examination under a microscope.

How the test is performed:

The biopsy can be performed in many ways. The method used depends on the reason for the biopsy and the patient's and doctor's wishes.

Open biopsy may be done in the health care provider's office, a surgical center, or at a hospital. The skin over the testicle is cleaned with a germ-killing (antiseptic) medicine. The area around it is covered with a sterile towel. A local anesthetic is given to numb the area.

A small surgical cut is made through the skin, and a small piece of the testicle tissue is removed. A stitch is used to close the opening in the testicle. Another stitch closes the cut in the skin. If necessary, the procedure is repeated for the other testicle.

Needle biopsy is usually done in the health care provider's office. The area is cleaned and local anesthesia is used, just as in the open biopsy. A sample of the testicle is taken using a special needle that does not require a cut in the skin.

Depending on the reason for the test, a needle biopsy may not be possible or recommended by the physician.

How to prepare for the test:

Adults:

As a general rule, you should not take aspirin or medications that contain aspirin for 1 week before the procedure. Ask your doctor before stopping any medications.

Children:

The preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust. Testicle biopsy is rarely done in children younger than 12. For specific information about how to prepare your child, see adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years).

How the test will feel:

There will be a sting when the anesthetic is given.You should only feel pressure or discomfort similar to a pin prick during the biopsy.

Why the test is performed:

The test is usually done to find the cause of male infertility when a semen analysis suggests that there is abnormal sperm and other tests have not found the cause. In some cases, sperm obtained from a testicular biopsy can be used to fertilize a woman's egg in the lab, a process called in vitro fertilization.

Testicle biopsy may also be done if you have found a lump during testicular self-examination. If tests such as testicular ultrasound suggest that the lump may be in the testicle, your health care provider may recommend exploring the testicle through a surgical cut made in the groin.

A biopsy to determine whether the lump is cancerous or noncancerous (benign) may be done. If it is cancerous or cancer is suspected, the entire testicle is removed.