Scrotal, Penile & Fertility
Epididymal Surgery
A specialised surgical procedure to remove the epididymis, providing a definitive solution for chronic pain or recurring infections. This last-resort treatment helps men regain their quality of life when other options have failed.
Key takeaways
- A specialised surgical procedure to remove the epididymis, providing a definitive solution for chronic pain or recurring infections. This last-resort treatment helps men regain their quality of life when other options have failed.
- Specialty: Scrotal, Penile & Fertility
45–60
Typical procedure timemin
Day case
Usually general or spinal anaesthetic
2–3
Bruising usually settlesweeks
Treatment Overview
About Epididymal Surgery
Epididymal surgery most often involves an Epididymectomy—the surgical removal of the epididymis. The epididymis is the small, coiled tube located behind the testicle that stores and carries sperm.
This procedure is typically considered a "last resort" for men who have already completed their families. It is primarily recommended for those suffering from Post-Vasectomy Pain Syndrome (PVPS) or chronic infections (epididymitis) that haven’t responded to antibiotics or other treatments. By removing the tube entirely, your specialist aims to remove the source of long-term inflammation or pressure that is causing you distress.
Safety Information
Benefits, Risks & Side Effects
01
Benefits
For men living with debilitating, daily pain or infections that keep coming back, this surgery offers a permanent way out.
Definitive Solution: By removing the inflamed or damaged tissue, we can often stop the cycle of pain.
High Success Rate: It is particularly effective when the pain is clearly located only within the epididymis itself.
Improved Quality of Life: Many patients find they can finally return to exercise and daily activities without the constant "dragging" sensation or discomfort they previously endured.
02
Risks
While this surgery is a definitive way to address physical issues, it is important to understand the risks. The most significant risk is that the surgery may not completely take away your pain; in some cases, chronic pain can be related to the nerves in the area rather than just the structure of the tube itself.
There is a 5% risk of developing an internal blood clot (haematoma) and a small risk of infection. Because the blood supply to the testicle runs very close to the epididymis, there is also a very rare risk that the testicle could shrink (atrophy) if its blood supply is affected during the operation.
03
Side Effects
Common side effects include bruising and swelling of the scrotum, which can take 2 to 3 weeks to fully settle down. You will likely feel a dull, heavy ache in your groin and scrotum during this time.
A permanent side effect is the loss of fertility on the side being operated on. Because the path for sperm to travel from the testicle has been removed, you will no longer be able to father a child using sperm from that side naturally.
What We Treat
How Epididymal Surgery Can Help You
This treatment is effective for a wide range of health needs. Select a condition below to learn more about how we can support your recovery and improve your daily well-being.
Patient Journey
What to Expect
A step-by-step guide through your Epididymal Surgery journey—from preparation and what happens during the procedure to recovery and aftercare.
01/ 03
Before Procedure
To ensure this is the right path for you, you will have a scrotal ultrasound to rule out any other causes for your pain.
Consultation: You will have a thorough discussion with your specialist about the permanent impact on your fertility.
Health Check: You’ll have a pre-operative assessment and a urine test to ensure you are clear of infection.
Fasting: As the procedure is done under a general or spinal anaesthetic, you must not eat or drink (nil by mouth) for 6 hours beforehand.
02/ 03
During Procedure
The surgery is a "day-case" procedure, usually taking 45 to 60 minutes.
While you are asleep or numbed, the surgeon makes a small incision in the scrotum.
They carefully separate the epididymis from the back of the testicle.
The specialist meticulously seals any small blood vessels to prevent bruising.
The epididymis is removed, and the area is closed with fine, dissolvable stitches.
03/ 03
After Procedure
Recovery requires a few weeks of patience to ensure the area heals correctly.
Support: You must wear tight-fitting, supportive underwear 24 hours a day for the first 14 days.
Ice Packs: Use a cold pack wrapped in a towel for 10 minutes at a time during the first 48 hours to keep swelling down.
Activity: Avoid heavy lifting and the gym for 3 to 4 weeks. Most men can return to a desk-based job within 7 to 10 days.
Follow-up: We will see you about 6 weeks later to check that your pain has resolved and that you are healing well.
Our Commitment
Care you can trust
Every treatment is delivered to the same standard: senior consultants, a personalised plan, and the safety of an accredited private hospital behind you.
Consultant-Led Excellence
Receive evidence-based treatments delivered by senior NHS consultants in a professional, specialist setting.
Personalised Care Plans
Your consultant will design a bespoke treatment plan tailored to your specific health goals and lifestyle.
Hospital-Grade Safety
We operate within leading private hospitals, adhering to strict CQC safety and technology standards.
A Heritage of Trust
Our partners bring decades of NHS and private experience, successfully managing thousands of patient cases.
Trusted Resources
Trusted Patient Resources
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Patient Guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this treatment and what to expect.
3 questions
Yes. The testicle itself is responsible for producing testosterone. As long as the testicle remains in place and its blood supply is healthy, your hormone levels and sex drive will remain unchanged. This surgery only removes the 'storage tube' for sperm.
Reviewed 2 Mar 2026
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While highly effective for pain originating strictly within the epididymis, it is not a 100% guarantee. Chronic pain can sometimes be caused by hypersensitive nerves in the spermatic cord. If the pain is 'referred' from elsewhere, removing the epididymis may not stop the sensation. This is why we usually try nerve blocks or other medications before recommending surgery.
Reviewed 2 Mar 2026
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This surgery effectively results in a 'one-sided vasectomy.' If your other testicle and epididymis are healthy, you should still be fertile. However, if you only have one functioning testicle or have had a vasectomy on the other side, you will be sterile. If you wish to preserve fertility, we strongly recommend discussing sperm banking before the procedure.
Reviewed 2 Mar 2026
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