$Unique_ID{BRK02111}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{The Truth of Testicle Implants}
$Subject{testicle implant testicular implants silicone cancer auto-immune
autoimmune disease diseases}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


The Truth of Testicle Implants


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QUESTION:  I was unaware that medical science had progressed so far, but my
friend assures me that there are testicle implants that can be used for men as
they age.  I am approaching the age where this is of much interest to me.  If
they exist, where and how do you get them?  As I write this I have a feeling
my leg is being pulled, but I think I will mail the letter to you anyway.  You
just never can tell!

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ANSWER:  I think your friend has just pulled a real "gotcha" on you, with just
enough element of truth for it to work.  Yes, there are such things as
testicular implants.  They are solid or gel filled silicone spheres used to
replace testicles which have been surgically removed.  About 3000 such
implants are sold each year, and they have been in use for more than 30 years.
So much for the truth.  They however, have no functioning ability, and are
used strictly for cosmetic reasons in men who have had their own gland removed
because of disease, such as cancer.
     Recently, because of the problems with silicone breast implants, they
became the focus of Food and Drug Administration attention.  Because it is now
suspected that silicone from implants may migrate within the body, and
possibly cause cancer or auto-immune disease, the FDA will collect data on the
health of men with these implants.  The FDA is seeking to require
manufacturers of silicone testicular implants to keep track of all men that
receive them.  However, there are no recommendations at this time that require
any actions, and men with these implants should merely be examined on a
regular basis by their own physicians.
     Now that wasn't what you had in mind, was it?

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.