Hydrocelectomy is a surgical treatment used to treat hydrocele, which is characterized by fluid accumulation on one side of the scrotum.

Hydrocele is most common in infants, but it can afflict men of any age. Unilateral hydrocelectomy is critical for saving the afflicted testis and keeping it functional.

What is a hydrocele?

A hydrocele is an abnormal collection of fluid between the layers of the sac that surrounds the testicles. This fluid produces swelling and feelings of fullness in the scrotum. Hydroceles can be either unilateral (affecting only one side of the scrotum) or bilateral (affecting both sides).

Symptoms of Hydroceles

The signs of a hydrocele are:

• Scrotal swelling and fullness are the most prevalent signs of a hydrocele. The swelling is typically mild and painless.
• Heaviness: The sensation of heaviness or discomfort in the scrotum.
• Testicular Shrinkage: In some circumstances, one testicle may appear smaller than the other.

Causes of Hydrocele

The actual etiology of a hydrocele is not always established, however there are various risk factors.

• Congenital Abnormalities: Some newborns are born with abnormalities in the sac surrounding their testicles, resulting in fluid accumulation.
• Inguinal Hernia: A weakening or tear in the abdominal wall muscles allows the intestines to descend into the scrotum, potentially resulting in a hydrocele.
  Infections in the scrotum or testicles can cause a hydrocele.
• Trauma or injury to the scrotum can cause a hydrocele.
• Tumors: In rare situations, tumors of the scrotum or testicles can induce a hydrocele.

Diagnosing Hydrocele

A hydrocele is diagnosed via a physical exam and imaging studies. During the physical examination, the doctor looks for swelling and fullness in the scrotum. Imaging procedures, such as ultrasound and MRI, are used to assess the quantity of fluid in the scrotum and the status of the testicles. Ultrasound is often used to evaluate fluid and testicular health, however MRI provides more thorough information and aids in the diagnosis of the hydrocele.

Hydrocele Treatment

Treatment for a hydrocele is determined by its size, the patient’s age, and overall health. Small and asymptomatic hydroceles seldom require treatment and can be evaluated by a doctor on a regular basis for changes.

Large or symptomatic hydroceles are usually treated with a surgical procedure known as hydrocelectomy. During this operation, a tiny incision is made in the scrotum to drain the accumulated fluid, and the sac is subsequently sealed to prevent fluid from building again.

Hydrocelectomy is typically performed under local anesthetic and takes approximately 30 minutes. Patients can generally return home the same day.

Recovery Following Hydrocelectomy

Recovery from hydrocelectomy is usually swift. Most patients can resume normal activities within a week. Pain or discomfort following the surgery might be alleviated with prescription pain relievers. The dangers and negative effects of hydrocelectomy are:

Infection: As with any surgical surgery, there is the possibility of infection.
Bleeding: Some minor bleeding may occur throughout the surgery.
Pain and Discomfort: Some pain and discomfort are normal following surgery.
Testicular Damage: In rare situations, the operation may cause damage to the testicles or nerves.