Lybrate Logo
Get the App
For Doctors
Login/Sign-up
Book Appointment
Treatment
Ask a Question
Plan my Surgery
Health Feed
tab_logos
About
tab_logos
Health Feed
tab_logos
Find Doctors

Hydrocele Surgery: Purpose, Procedure, Benefits and Side Effects

Last Updated: Jun 28, 2023

What is Hydrocele Surgery?

Topic Image

If a hydrocele does not go away on its own, it may have to be removed surgically; this treatment is usually performed as an outpatient method. There are two types of anesthesia that can be used during a hydrocelectomy, either general or local.

To cure the hydrocele, a cut is done in the abdominal area or scrotum. Even though a hydrocele is not bothersome, the surgeon may choose to remove it if it is discovered during an operation to treat a hernia.

You might require a catheter to empty liquids and a big bandage for a couple of days following hydrocelectomy. Due to the possibility of a hydrocele resurfacing, the doctor might advise a follow-up examination.

A doctor should check a hydrocele since it may be related to the testicles problem that is inherent. A hydrocele is just a liquid sac which surrounds the testicle. A hydrocelectomy is a method used to remove or treat a hydrocele.

The process is often finished in under an hour. Risks can include delayed healing, inflammation, bleeding, edema, and scarring. The healing process could take two weeks or longer. A hydrocele is surgically removed or repaired during a hydrocelectomy.

A fluid-filled sac that surrounds your testicles is known as a hydrocele. It makes the sac that houses your testicles, known as your scrotum, swell. If you suffer from hydroceles in both of the testicles, a bilateral hydrocelectomy can be necessary.

The term 'bilateral' denotes that both your left and right testicles are impacted by the illness.

Both communicative and non-communicating hydroceles exist.

  • Communicating hydrocele: Hydrocele which is in contact with the liquids of the abdominal wall is known as a communicative hydrocele. A communicative hydrocele is brought on by the failing of the thin membrane that extends through the inguinal canal and extends into the scrotum. It is possible for both a hernia and a hydrocele to form if this membrane is left exposed. The scrotum of the child will seem enlarged or bloated, and its size may fluctuate throughout the day.
  • Non-communicating hydrocele: This variety has a closed inguinal canal but still has excess fluid surrounding the testicle in the scrotum. This issue may be present at birth or may appear unpredictably after several years. The non-communicating hydrocele typically doesn't change in size or grows very slowly.

Types of Hydrocele Surgery

During an examination, a doctor will make an effort to feel the testicle's condition. Normally, the hydrocele's enclosing sac prevents this from happening.

Standard Hydrocelectomy (Open Surgery)

The standard procedure for hydrocele surgery is open surgery. The surgeon gives the patient anesthetic during open surgery. Then, either the groin or the scrotum are incised. The fluid is drained out using suction.

The gap between the abdomen and scrotum is then sealed by the doctor. The hydrocele sac is also removed, after which the doctor threads and stitches the wound together. In a traditional hydrocelectomy, two alternative techniques are employed depending on the hydrocele's state.

Which are:

Surgical removal of the hydrocele sac combined with hydrocelectomy

When the hydrocele is big, has thick walls, and numerous chambers, this technique is helpful (multilocular). In this operation, the hydrocele is fully mobilized before the scrotum is cut apart. The epididymis and ducts are protected from damage throughout the procedure with care. The borders of the sac are then stitched behind the seminal cord just after surgery.

pms_banner

Hydrocelectomy with Plication of the hydrocele sac

This procedure is used to treat hydroceles which are moderate in size and also have small diameter. A tiny cut is performed without any additional preparation, and the hydrocele is then opened. The hydrocele is then decreased, and the wound is closed with stitches.

Compared to excision, it requires minimal dissection and has fewer complications. Intraoperative bleeding occurs often during the above mentioned open surgical treatment. Additionally, open surgery is very painful.

You would need roughly 4-6 weeks to get back to your normal schedule due to the prolonged recuperation period. Additionally, the risk of infections is significant due to the number of stitches and incisions involved.

The best and much more modern option for hydroceles surgery is laser hydrocelectomy. The method of laser-based hydrocelectomy has been created as a result of advancements in technology and medical sciences. It is a current method of hydrocelectomy.

Under the influence of anesthetic, this technique is carried out. Some surgeons use laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery to do a hydrocelectomy by passing a catheter with a camera through the stomach.

Sometimes people and their surgeons decide to drain the hydroceles, which is a viable option. The likelihood of the hydroceles recurring is higher with this surgery. Most patients leave the hospital following a hydrocelectomy, which needs a general anesthesia.

It is crucial to discuss what to anticipate during recovery with the surgeon, whether it be for oneself or a child.

What are the benefits of Hydrocele Surgery?

A hydrocelectomy has numerous benefits, including:

  • Preventing infant inguinal hernias - An infant with an inguinal hernia has a hernia in their groin. It occurs when a portion of the intestine pushes through a hole in their abdominal wall by their inguinal canal. A hydrocelectomy aids in avoiding the development of an inguinal hernia.
  • Enhanced comfort - It could be difficult to sit, lie down, walk, or run comfortably if you have hydroceles.
  • A rise in self-esteem - The majority of people are happy with the hydrocelectomy outcomes. After the treatment, they are pleased with the appearance of their scrotum.
  • Safety - The risk of problems or adverse effects is low during a hydrocelectomy. The majority of folks go home the day the operation is done.

Why is Hydrocele Surgery Done?

A fluid-filled sac that develops around a testicle is called a hydrocele. It happens when fluid accumulates in the epithelial layer which protects the testicle. It could be brought on by a testicular injury or an infection. However, the cause is frequently unknown.

In the scrotum, a big hydrocele may be painful or swollen. The procedure of removing a hydrocele is known as a hydrocelectomy. A hydrocele, or fluid accumulation around a testicle, can be treated surgically with a hydrocelectomy. Most of the time, a hydrocele will go away on its own. However, if a hydrocele enlarges, it may require surgery to be repaired and can lead to scrotal enlargement, pain, and inflammation.

A small percentage of males above 40 who are adults—about 1 percent—have hydroceles. The chance of having a hydrocele may rise as a result of radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

In most cases, the cause of non-communicating hydroceles in adult males is unknown. Although a hydrocele does not hurt, the size and weight of the inflated scrotum can make men uncomfortable.

Even in adults, the condition might go away on its own after a few months; however, if it persists, medical treatment is required, and a person might think about undergoing a hydrocelectomy.

Your scrotum may develop a hydrocele, but it likely won't irritate you or pose any health risks. Try using pro painkillers while you wait for the inflammation to go down.

If somehow the hydrocele becomes too large, it may be necessary to be treated. You should think about surgery if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • One side of the scrotum is swollen.
  • One or the other testicles hurt
  • Unpleasant heaviness brought on by scrotum expansion

What are the risks of Hydrocele Surgery?

Risks are quite unlikely. Do consult your doctor If you detect any infection-related symptoms, including:

  • A sense of heat or redness at the surgery spot
  • More pain
  • Stench-filled fluid pouring from the surgical incision
  • Increasing edema
  • Infection
  • Fever
  • Hydrocele's recurrence
  • Infertility may result from damage to the testis and adjacent structures
  • Extraordinary bleeding, clotting, injury close to the testicle that can impair male fertility
  • Anesthesia-related issues are some other potential side effects

However, these risks can be mitigated with the help of deft and expert doctors of pristyn Care. Our wonderful team of doctors will ensure your safety and offer the most dependable and secure method of treatment with their relative experience in the field of surgery.

How to prepare for Hydrocele Surgery?

  • You will undergo the usual preliminary urine and blood tests before surgery. A medical professional will explain how the procedure will happen and whether the implanting of a tube to drain bodily fluids for a brief period of time is necessary.
  • After operation, this aids in avoiding infection and fluid accumulation inside the scrotum. Always let your doctor know if you're using any prescription drugs or nutritional supplements, including herbal ones.
  • Some of these can disrupt your body's normal clotting process and result in bleeding. If you have ever had issues with severe bleeding or are sensitive to any drugs, your surgeon must be aware.
  • You need to cease using any drugs a few days prior to the procedure, including aspirin (Bufferin), warfarin (Coumadin), and clopidogrel (Plavix). Observe the dietary and hydration recommendations of your doctor.
  • It's likely that you won't be permitted to drink or eat for at least six hours prior to the procedure.Inform your physician of all medications you use. Both professional and over-the-counter medications fall under this category. Herbs and other supplements are also included in this.
  • Other blood thinners, like warfarin, clopidogrel, or daily aspirin, are also included. As directed by your doctor, you might need to quit taking any or all of these before operation. If you are instructed to abstain from consuming food or drinking prior to operation, abide by the advice.

How Hydrocele Surgery is Done?

  • A hydrocelectomy is normally performed in an outpatient setting. You will typically need general anesthesia, which will render you unconscious throughout the procedure. To control your respiration, a tube will be placed in your trachea.
  • You will have an IV access installed in your arm prior to the procedure to give any necessary liquids and medications. A tiny cut is made in the scrotum during a normal hydrocelectomy, and the hydrocele is suctioned out.
  • A laparoscope, a tube with a small camera attached to the end, can be used to do the repair with the least amount of trauma to the patient. It enables the surgeon to view the scrotum's interior on an outside video display.
  • The 'keyhole' incision can be used to insert micro tools to complete the surgery. Around 30 minutes are needed for the process. Most likely, you'll return home within the same day.

Before the procedure begins

A vein in your hand is used to insert an IV (intravenous) line. This line distributes medications and liquids (such as antibiotics) .Anesthesia is subsequently administered to keep you pain-free throughout the procedure.

This could be general anesthesia, which keeps you unconscious during the procedure. To assist with breathing, a tube may be inserted into your throat. To assist manage post-operative pain, numbing medication or local anesthetic may be administered. You can learn more from the physician or anesthesiologist.

During the Surgery

The scrotum is cut open. The fluid inside the hydrocele is removed. The tissue that surrounds the hydrocele to form a sac is either removed or relocated. This aids in preventing fluid accumulation yet again.

To enable fluid to flow, a narrow tube (drain) may be inserted into the opening. Stitches or surgical tapes are used to close the cut inside the scrotum.

After the surgery

To help you recuperate from the anesthetic, you will be transported to a room. You'll be observed by a nurse who will make sure you're not in any pain. You might feel queasy and drowsy. Your throat can first feel painful if a breathing tube is inserted.

The operative region may be covered with an ice pack. Thus swelling is lessened. A jockstrap could also be provided for you to wear. Injuries can be avoided and inflammation or discomfort are reduced as a result.

You're prepared to return back to the house, let a responsible friend or relatives take you.

What is the cost of Hydrocele Surgery?

In India, cost of a hydrocele operation might as much as 49,000 rupees on average and might reach a maximum of 85,000 rupees. Simple hydroceles are not uncomfortable or painful. However, hydroceles brought on by inguinal hernias require immediate surgical intervention.

For the most part, two surgical methods are used to address this physical issue. The type of procedure you might have depends on how big the hydrocele was when it occurred.

What to do after Hydrocele Surgery?

Stay away from any genital contact, such as oral sex and skin-to-skin sex, that could put your partner at risk of getting a STI. Your doctor will check on your recovery during follow-up visits. Additionally, you might need to have sutures or a surgical drain taken out.

If you have any queries or worries about your recovery, make sure to discuss them with your doctor. Most people feel pain following the treatment for the first week or so, which requires medication.

In addition to painkillers, applying cold compress to the injured area could be beneficial.

During their rehabilitation, some people might need to utilize specialized bandages or a drainage tube.

After surgery, edema could last for a few weeks. Depending on the person's age and the complexity of the treatments done, activity should be restricted. After a hydrocelectomy, give kids sponge baths rather than soaking in the tub for around ten days.

Children shouldn't play with swinging horses, ride a bicycle or other straddling toys, or engage in sports for around 3 weeks following the treatment.

What to eat after Hydrocele Surgery?

You may consume your typical diet. Try bland, low-fat items such plain rice, grilled chicken, bread, and yogurt if your stomach is disturbed. Make sure you're getting enough liquids to prevent dehydration.

Immediately following surgery, you could observe that the bowel movements become irregular.

Include fruits and vegetables in your diet on a daily basis, such as oranges, apricots, apples and grapes.

Refrain from having canned or tinned fruits as much as you can and only eat fresh, raw fruits. Fresh handmade fruit salads and sugar-free drinks can also be included.

  • Boiled vegetables: Vegetables that have been boiled or steam-cooked should be a frequent part of your diet. For lunch and dinner, a bowl of boiled veggies is available. A daily serving of fresh vegetable salad might be a better choice.
  • Maintaining hydration: It's crucial to maintain hydration. Keep a glass or container of water on hand, and be sure to sip it every 15 to 30 minutes. It is crucial to drink a lot of water as well as other wholesome liquids to keep hydrated and fit, especially if you have undergone hydrocele surgery.
  • Black tea and ginger tea: Both beverages are well renowned for their wealth of health advantages. Black tea and ginger tea are also advantageous for patients with hydrocele. A little cup of ginger tea each day might help to reduce some discomfort and inflammation.
  • Fiber-rich diet: A high fiber diet is essential for a healthy gastrointestinal system. Individuals experiencing hydrocele may benefit from eating fiber-rich foods including methi, wheat, rye, cereals and bajra because they aid in better digestion.
  • Strawberry: Including antioxidants in the diet may be very healthful, particularly for those who have hydrocele. Because they are abundant in antioxidants, strawberries as well as other berries and fruits with red or orange coloring can aid in detoxification.

Foods you need to avoid

  • Junk food: Due to their low nutrient and vitamin content, junk food is advised to be avoided. Examples include pizza, hamburgers, chips, and more. These have a number of negative effects, and hydroceles' condition could potentially get worse.
  • In addition, junk food frequently weighs a lot and has a lot of fat, which affects bowel motions. Constipation follows, which increases the tension felt during bowel motions and can exacerbate the hydrocele.
  • Foods that are spicy: If you have undergone hydrocele surgery, you must cut back on your spice intake. Additionally, stay away from fatty and filling foods. Your body may be harmed by foods that are oily. Such meals could also result in a variety of inconveniences.

Is Hydrocele Surgery Safe?

  • A hydrocele, a fluid-filled sac enclosing your testicle, can be removed or repaired through a treatment called a hydrocelectomy. It makes the sac that houses your testicles, known as your scrotum, swell.
  • A hydrocelectomy can enhance the quality of life for you or your kid and may stop the onset of other problems. Although a hydrocelectomy is a relatively safe treatment, you could feel a bit uneasy.
  • Know more regarding the possible results and dangers by discussing them with your surgeon.

Is Hydrocele Surgery Painful?

After a hydrocele surgery, you can experience some minor discomfort or pain. NSAIDs or a painkiller obtained with a prescription can help you control your pain. The purpose of this procedure was to drain the fluid and prevent it from reaccumulating in the scrotum.

You can experience more fatigue than normal after operation, as well as some little pelvic discomfort for a few days. Your scrotum and crotch may be scarred or inflamed. Generally, this gets much better within 14 to 21 days.

How long does it take to recover from Hydrocele Surgery?

After a hydrocele surgery most patients can return to their regular routines in two days or less. A day or two following surgery, the doctor will disconnect the drain.

The tissue on your scrotum may just have expanded if you have a significant hydrocele, and you could have saggy skin after having the hydrocele removed. After a hydrocele surgery, the scrotum will begin to contract to its normal size within some days or a month.

During he first two weeks, you should refrain from sexually and physically demanding activities. Showering seems to be acceptable, however bathing shouldn't be done till the wound is cured.To help avoid infection in babies, maintain the area as clean and dry as you can.

It's vital to keep in mind that since every person's physiology is different, recuperation times might differ. Follow the advice given to you by your healthcare practitioner for handling pain and discomfort.

Your injured areas require time to recover. It is advisable to take five to seven days off from work or school. If your profession requires physical exertion, you could need a minimum of two weeks to recuperate before going back to work.

What are the side effects of Hydrocele Surgery?

Hydrocele Surgery like any other surgery might have certain side effects like

  • Redness and soreness
  • Swelling in the testicles
  • Infection in the wounds
  • Slight pain and irritation

However these symptoms don’t last long and get cured once the wound is healed completely.

Hydrocele Surgery Aftercare

  • Within a couple of weeks, you'll arrange a follow-up consultation so the surgeon can assess your healing progress and look for any indications of infection or other comorbidities. Expect some inflammation and discomfort while at home.
  • Your crotch will be wrapped in bandages throughout this time. It is more comfortable to protect the scrotum with a jockstrap. Use ice compresses for 10 to fifteen minutes each time during the initial days to lessen discomfort and swelling.
  • Find out how to prepare a homemade cold compress. If somehow the bandaged region is covered to keep it from getting wet, you can take a shower. Avoid bathing, swimming, and hot tubbing until the wound has healed. For as long as 30 days, the scrotum could continue to swell.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting while you're recovering. You may be recommended to abstain from sexual activity for at least 45 days. When taking sedative painkillers, avoid operating a vehicle.
  • Major problems are quite rare following hydrocelectomy, which typically has positive results. After operation, a second hydrocele can develop and need to be treated again, but this is uncommon. If the scrotum begins to enlarge and hurt once more, call the doctor immediately.

Conclusion

  • The scrotum may develop a hydrocele, but it probably won't irritate you or pose any health risks. Try using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory painkillers while you wait for the swelling to go down. In most cases, it will disappear on its own in 6 months.
  • If the hydrocele becomes too large, it might need to be repaired. You should think about surgery if you have any of the painful symptoms:Make an appointment for a follow-up visit with your doctor. After around 7 days, they would like to inspect the wound and remove the stitches.
  • They will also remove any drainage tubes you may have.A hydrocelectomy can enhance the quality of life for you or your kid and may stop the onset of other problems. If a man or an AMAB (assigned male at birth) has an enlarged scrotum that does not disappear on its own, a hydrocelectomy may be necessary.
  • Any person with a hydrocele, regardless of age, may benefit from a hydrocelectomy, according to medical professionals. Since you can see hydroceles and they are located in a delicate area of your body, they might be unsettling.
  • They occasionally become better without therapy and are often painless. But you must talk to your doctor straight away if you see anything unusual in the scrotum. It can be a symptom of something more severe.
  • Hydrocele might cause great pain and discomfort to a patient and adversely affect their health. Therefore going for a hydrocelectomy is the best option one can choose. In case you are in search of a trusted medical source for hydrocelectomy, then do contact Pristyn Care.
  • Our highly professional and experienced doctors will provide you a hassle-free surgical experience with their expertise. Do reach out to us. We will be more than pleased to help you out.

References

Popular Questions & Answers

View All

I have receding gum problem .lower left side 4 ...

related_content_doctor

Dr. Pulak Mukherjee

Homeopathy Doctor

Rinse ur mouth with warm salt water,, rinse ur mouth with fatkiri water,, with this u need proper...

I am 32, having the problem of gum receding & l...

related_content_doctor

Dr. Suneet Khandelwal

Dentist

Without identifying the reason of such bad changes in very early age medicines cannot be given on...

Hi I am worried about my gums. I already had gu...

related_content_doctor

Dr. Tejaswini

Dentist

You need to undergo scaling and root planing. If that doesn't help then you should undergo a flap...

Can we get braces after periodontal flap surger...

related_content_doctor

Dr. Sheesham Tiwari Shastri

Dentist

Their should b a coordination between your orthodontist and periodontist only after that you can ...

My jaws are moving when I eat roti or any food ...

related_content_doctor

Dr. Pogaku Rajkumar

Dentist

Loosening of teeth indicates a condition called periodontitis meaning inflamation of teeth and gu...

Table of content

Content Details
Profile Image
Written ByDr. C.S. Ramachandran DNB (General Surgery),FICS,MBBS,MS - General Surgery,FCCP (USA)General Surgery
Need more help 

15+ Years of Surgical Experience

All Insurances Accepted

EMI Facility Available at 0% Rate

Find General Surgeon near me

pms_banner
chat_icon

Ask a free question

Get FREE multiple opinions from Doctors

posted anonymously
lybrate_youtubeâ–¶

Having issues? Consult a doctor for medical advice