Hydrocelectomy

Hydrocelectomy is a surgery done to remove the hydrocele. A hydrocele is a sac of fluid that forms round the testicle. It occurs when fluid builds up in the layer of tissue that shields the testicle. It may be as a result of an infection or injury in the testicle. But the cause is often not known. A large hydrocele can lead to pain or swelling in the scrotum.

Preparing for Hydrocelectomy surgery

Get ready for the surgery as you have been instructed. In addition:

• Inform your doctor about all medications you take. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medicines. This also includes herbs and other supplements. It also includes any blood thinners, such as warfarin, clopidogrel, or daily aspirin. You may need to stop taking some or all of them prior to the surgery as instructed by your doctor.

• Follow any instructions you are given for not eating or drinking before surgery.

Day of Hydrocelectomy surgery

The surgical procedure takes about 30 minutes. You will possibly go home on the same day. Before the surgery starts

• An IV (intravenous) line is placed into a vein in your arm or hand. This line transports fluids and medicine (such as antibiotics).

• You are then given medicine (anaesthesia) to prevent pain during the surgery. This may be general anaesthesia, which puts you in a deep sleep during the surgery. A tube may be put into your throat to aid breathing.

• Local anaesthesia or numbing medicine may be given to help manage post-surgery pain.

During the Hydrocelectomy surgery

• A cut is done in the scrotum.

• The hydrocele is drained of fluid. The tissue that produces the sac round the hydrocele is taken out or repositioned. This helps to stop fluid from building up again.

• A thin tube (drain) may be placed in the incision to let the fluid to drain.

• The incision in the scrotum is closed with stitches or surgical strips.

After the Hydrocelectomy surgery

You will be taken to a room to recover from the anaesthesia. A nurse will closely monitor you and make sure you’re not in pain. You may feel drowsy and nauseated. If a breathing tube was used, your throat may be raw at first. An ice pack may be placed on the surgical area. This helps decrease swelling. You may also be given a jockstrap to wear. This helps relieve pain and swelling, and averts injury. Once you are ready to go home, have an adult family member or friend take you.

Recovering at home

Follow the guidelines you have been given to take care of yourself. During your recovery:

• Place an ice pack or cold compress on the scrotum as instructed to help decrease swelling. Do this for not more than 15 minutes at a time. Keep on using the cold pack for 2 days or until swelling decreases.

• Take prescribed pain medication as directed.

• Take care of your incision as instructed.

• Follow your doctor’s guidelines for showering. Avoid swimming, bathing, using a hot tub, and other actions that cause the incision to be covered with water until your doctor says it’s OK.

• Wear a jockstrap or snug underwear as instructed.

• Avoid heavy lifting and exercise as directed.

• Don't engage in sex for 4 weeks, or as directed.

• Don't drive until you are no longer taking pain medication and your doctor says it’s OK.

Follow-up care for Hydrocelectomy

You will have follow-up visits with your medical doctor to check on your healing. You may also have stitches or a surgical drain that needs to be removed. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your recovery.

Risks and complications of Hydrocelectomy

Risk and possible complications include:

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Blood clots

• Recurrence of the hydrocele

• Injury to the testicle and close structures, which can lead to infertility.

• Risks of anaesthesia (the anaesthesiologist will discuss these with you) .

Frequently Asked Questions

When is a hydrocelectomy recommended?

Hydrocelectomy is usually recommended when a hydrocele causes pain, discomfort, or becomes significantly large, affecting daily activities or causing cosmetic concerns.

How is a hydrocelectomy performed?

During a hydrocelectomy, the surgeon makes a small incision in the scrotum and carefully drains the fluid. The hydrocele sac is then either removed or sutured to prevent the recurrence of fluid accumulation.

Is a hydrocelectomy performed under general anaesthesia?

Yes, most hydrocelectomy procedures are performed under general anaesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort and safety throughout the surgery.

Is hydrocelectomy an outpatient procedure?

In many cases, hydrocelectomy is performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can go home the same day. However, this can vary depending on the patient's overall health and the surgeon's recommendation.

What is the recovery period like after a hydrocelectomy?

The recovery period typically involves mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising for a few days to a week. Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting during this time.

Can hydrocelectomy lead to infertility?

Hydrocelectomy itself does not affect fertility. However, if a hydrocele was causing infertility issues before the surgery, addressing the hydrocele may improve fertility outcomes.

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