[Surgical castration for cancer of the prostate. A simplified technic]

We describe a simplified technique for surgical castration in patients with carcinoma of the prostate consisting mainly in crushing the epididymis between two kelly forceps and then removing the entire testis. The epididymis is then gathered into a mass and sutured using a hemostatic stitch. Fifty-five castrations for carcinoma of the prostate were performed using this simplified technique, with a low morbidity rate: moderate hematoma of the scrotum that did not require reoperation, and two mild superficial wound infections. Surgical castration for carcinoma of the prostate is a simple procedure. At present this treatment involves the lowest costs and ensures optimal patient compliance.