Treating Hydrocoele with an operation
A hydrocoele is a collection of fluid around the testicle. This is a benign condition. There is usually a slow accumulation of fluid over time, and this can cause bothersome discomfort due to its size and location.
For men where the hydrocoele is bothering them, the best treatment usually is an operation.
Aspiration and injection of sclerosant is also an option for some men.
Hydrocoele repair
Why am I having this operation?
A hydrocoele repair is done when men have significant symptoms related to it.
What is involved with my operation?
A hydrocoele repair is done under general anaesthetic.
The procedure usually takes about 40 minutes.
It is usually done through a midline incision in your scrotum.
The operation itself involves removing the fluid. The lining of the sac containing the fluid is removed and any remaining lining is folded back on itself with sutures. Occasionally if there is significant scarring or inflammation, a drain is left postoperatively. Otherwise, the wound is repaired with dissolving sutures.
Local anaesthetic is used for postoperative pain relief.
You are usually able to go home on the same day.
What is involved after my surgery?
A hydrocoele repair is a minor procedure. However, it is vital to take it easy for the 2 weeks following the operation. There is a space where the fluid used to be, and this space can potentially fill up with fluid or blood if men get back into physical activity too quickly. For these 2 weeks, it is vital to avoid any heavy exertion or lifting or exercise. Being disciplined pays dividends for successful outcomes and a smooth recovery.
As part of the procedure, there will be a preoperative shave and the hair growing back can cause irritation. This is nothing to worry about. There can be some minor discharge from the wound but usually, this is not an infection.
A haematoma is a rare complication. If this has occurred, surgery may be required to drain the haematoma. More commonly, a post-operative seroma or accumulation of fluid can occur. This is usually effectively treated with simple aspiration of the fluid.
We would see you for a follow-up at Bay Urology 6 to 8 weeks postoperatively.
