A hydrocele is a condition of the testicle in boys, where the scrotum enlarges due to fluid accumulation. It is an unsightly and bothersome condition where the affected testicle is larger, and sometimes the skin of the testicle is tense. A hydrocele impairs the nutrition of the testicle, which can lead to a disorder in the production of male hormones and sperm production (spermatogenesis). The solution is hydrocele surgery.
A urologist diagnoses it by palpation and scrotal ultrasound. In boys, the hydrocele sac usually communicates with the abdominal cavity, a condition called communicating hydrocele.
If a hydrocele is diagnosed at an early age and does not heal spontaneously during the first 2.5 years of life, surgery is usually performed later. By adjusting the testicle's coverings and resecting, the hydrocele sac and the communicating channel with fluid are removed.
Basic Information
- The procedure is performed under general anesthesia
- The procedure usually takes 15 to 30 minutes
- After the surgery, the child goes home on the day of the surgery, accompanied by a parent
- The stitches are absorbable, so they do not need to be removed
- Parents continue to care for and dress the wound at home according to the doctor's instructions until it is completely healed
- A smaller or larger swelling occurs at the site of the surgical procedure. Physical exertion promotes swelling, so it is important to avoid it and adhere to strict rest.
- A check-up is performed after 2-3 weeks
- Hydrocele surgery has a good aesthetic effect, the testicle is fully functional and normal in size after the surgery
- The size of the testicle normalizes within 3 weeks to 3 months