Satisfaction with testicular prosthesis: a Portuguese questionnaire-based study in testicular cancer survivors

Abstract

Radical orchiectomy in testicular cancer patients can have a negative impact on body image and self-esteem. Reconstructive surgery with testicular prosthesis might mitigate this burden. We conducted a questionnaire-based study aiming to evaluate our patients' satisfaction with testicular prosthesis. Overall satisfaction was rated as excellent or good in 97.7%. The main complaints were related to the prosthesis' inappropriate texture (45.5%), size (18.1%) or position (15.9%). Among men interviewed, 59% considered that having a normal looking scrotum was either extremely important or important for their self-esteem. The majority (88.2%) stated they would make the same decision again, and nearly all patients would recommend it to other men with testicular cancer. We believe testicular implants should always be offered, leaving the final decision to the patient.

Keywords: Body image; Cáncer de testículo; Imagen corporal; Impacto psicológico; Orquiectomía radical; Patient's satisfaction; Prótesis testicular; Psychological impact; Radical orchiectomy; Satisfacción del paciente; Testicular cancer; Testicular prosthesis.