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Hydrocelectomy

What Is a Hydrocele Operation (Hydrocelectomy)?

A hydrocele operation (hydrocelectomy) is a procedure used to remove pockets of fluid that develop around a patient’s testicle.  Patients usually receive general or spinal anesthesia for the procedure.   

The surgeon can use one of two techniques during hydrocelectomy operations.  For surgical excision, the surgeon makes an incision in the hydrocele and empties the liquid, which may be tested for parasites, infections, or cancerous cells.  After examining the testicle for abnormalities, the surgeon stitches the fluid-secreting skin of the sac to the inner skin of the scrotum, which absorbs further secretions.  If the testicle is diseased, the surgeon removes it.  Once the hydrocele operation is complete, the surgeon stitches the wound shut. 

Patients are usually able to return home on the same day, unless they are above 50 years of age, have difficulty urinating, have an illness, or cannot manage on their own at home.  If any of the latter conditions are true, patients may remain in the hospital for 1 or 2 days.  Patients should urinate to empty the bladder within 6 to 12 hours of the operation.  The nurses remove the stitches or paper strips used to seal the wound after 7 to 10 days.  Driving is possible approximately 10 days post surgery, while sexual relations may resume within one to two weeks.  Most patients make a full recovery within a month.