Hydrocelectomy
A hydrocele is a painless fluid-filled sac around the testicle. Hydrocelectomy is a simple day-care procedure that removes the fluid and prevents recurrence.
Overview
A hydrocele is a collection of clear fluid in the tunica vaginalis — the sac surrounding the testicle. It causes the scrotum to swell, usually on one side, and is common in newborns (where it usually resolves spontaneously) and older men (often from injury, infection, or inflammation).
Hydrocelectomy is a straightforward surgical procedure performed under local or spinal anaesthesia. A small incision is made in the scrotum or lower abdomen, the fluid is drained, and the sac is either everted or partially removed to prevent fluid from reaccumulating. Patients go home the same day.
Causes
- Incomplete closure of the processus vaginalis (congenital)
- Trauma or injury to the scrotum
- Infection or inflammation (epididymitis, orchitis)
- Inguinal hernia surgery
- Filariasis (parasitic infection)
- Testicular tumour (rare)
Symptoms
- Painless swelling on one or both sides of the scrotum
- A feeling of heaviness or dragging in the scrotum
- The swelling may be larger in the evening and smaller after lying down (communicating hydrocele)
- Discomfort during physical activity
Diagnosis
- Transillumination test — shining a light through the scrotum; hydroceles glow because they contain clear fluid
- Ultrasound — confirms fluid and rules out hernia or testicular mass
- Physical examination — differentiating from inguinal hernia
Treatment Options
Hydrocelectomy (Jaboulay or Lord's procedure)
Surgical removal or eversion of the sac to drain fluid and prevent recurrence. Day-care surgery.
Aspiration and sclerotherapy
Needle drainage followed by injection of a sclerosing agent. Higher recurrence than surgery, used for poor surgical candidates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a hydrocele go away on its own?
Congenital hydroceles in infants usually resolve by age 1. Adult hydroceles do not resolve and may gradually enlarge.
How soon after hydrocelectomy can I resume normal activities?
Most men return to desk jobs in 2-3 days. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 2 weeks.
Ready to Discuss Your Treatment?
Our hydrocelectomy specialists in Kondapur are here to help. Most consultations available within 24 hours.