HYDROCELE

WHAT IS A HYDROCELE?

A hydrocele is a collection of fluid in the membranes surrounding the testicles, causing swelling in the scrotum.

WHAT CAUSES HYDROCELE?

• Excessive production of fluid within the sac.
• Defective absorption of fluid.
• By connection with a hernia of the peritoneal cavity.
• Secondary hydrocele – trauma, inflammation.

SYMPTOMS

• Scrotal swelling – may cause discomfort if large.
• Usually painless.

COMPLICATIONS

• Herniation of the hydrocele sac in long standing cases.
• Spontaneous bleeding / trauma causing hematocele.
• Infection.
• Atrophy of testes in long standing cases.

INVESTIGATIONS

• It is a clinical diagnosis.
• Local examination is sufficient.
• Ultrasound is required in certain cases to rule out underlying cause.

TREATMENT

• There are no medicines which make hydrocele disappear.
• Surgery is the treatment of choice.
• During surgery, a small incision is made on the scrotum, fluid is drained and membranes are stitched.
• A small drain is kept which is usually removed after 48-72 hours.

SURGICAL COMPLICATIONS

Surgical site infection – few stitches may need to be removed followed by daily dressing.

INSTRUCTIONS AFTER SURGERY

• You need to be hospitalized for 1-2 days and then follow up for dressing.
• There is a small dressing at the surgical site.
• Drain is removed after 2-3 days.
• You can have a bath after 7 days.
• Rest is recommended for 7-10 days.
• You may experience a degree of scrotal edema / inflammation for nearly 1 month.
• You are advised to use langot / scrotal support for the next 2-3 months.
• You can resume work after 7-10 days.