Hydrocele treatment

Hydrocele, or testicular dropsy, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid between the layers surrounding the testicle. It is often associated with funiculocele — a fluid collection along the spermatic cord.

The disease manifests as scrotal enlargement, discomfort during walking or urination, and other symptoms.

Hydrocele can be:

• Congenital — diagnosed in childhood;

• Acquired — develops as a result of pathological causes.

Depending on whether one or both testicles are affected, hydrocele can be unilateral or bilateral.

Based on the course of the condition, hydrocele is also divided into:

• Acute — accompanied by rapid symptom progression and worsening well-being;

• Chronic — symptoms persist for a long time and may intensify during flare-ups.

Depending on the cause, testicular dropsy may be:

• Inflammatory;

• Post-traumatic;

• Lymphostatic — caused by lymphatic fluid congestion;

• Iatrogenic — a reaction to medication;

• Postoperative — a complication following surgery on the scrotum or pelvic organs.

Hydrocele may be a congenital feature or develop in children or adult men due to certain factors.

The causes of testicular dropsy may include:

• Injuries to the groin area;

• Inflammatory diseases;

• Varicocele;

• Tumors;

• Congestion in the pelvic area;

• Cardiovascular insufficiency;

• Severe urogenital infections;

• Postoperative complications;

• Use of certain medications, etc.

The main manifestation of hydrocele is an increase in scrotal size. Swelling may occur on one or both sides and can fluctuate throughout the day, depending on physical activity or rest. Pain may be absent, so many patients postpone visiting a doctor.

Symptoms of testicular dropsy may include:

• Scrotal swelling;

• Discomfort during urination;

• Discomfort while walking or exercising;

• Pain in the groin area;

• Sexual dysfunction;

• Elevated body temperature;

• General weakness.

Fever and signs of intoxication appear when there is inflammation or when hydrocele is a complication of an infectious disease. In other cases, the patient may only notice scrotal swelling for a long time. Other symptoms develop as the amount of fluid increases.

Scrotal swelling is not unique to hydrocele — it may also indicate an inguinal hernia or tumors. Therefore, timely consultation with a doctor and diagnostics are essential.

If hydrocele symptoms appear, you should consult a urologist or andrologist. During the appointment, the doctor will listen to your complaints, review your medical history, and perform an examination. They will assess the degree of scrotal enlargement, changes in shape, etc. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe:

• Scrotal ultrasound;

• Doppler sonography;

• Laboratory tests.

Ultrasound is the primary diagnostic method. It allows detection of hydrocele and the amount of accumulated fluid. Other tests are prescribed to rule out inflammation, infection, and associated conditions.

The treatment approach depends on the size of the hydrocele, presence of other pathologies, and the patient’s age. Both medication and surgical treatments are used.

In children under 2 years of age with congenital hydrocele, a watchful waiting strategy or conservative therapy is often chosen. For older boys and adult men, surgical removal of the fluid is recommended. This is a simple, minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia in a day hospital setting. The patient needs to stay at the clinic for only a few hours.

If hydrocele is accompanied by inflammation or other diseases, additional appropriate treatment is provided.

With timely diagnosis, hydrocele is successfully treated and does not cause complications. The risk of complications arises in advanced stages of the disease, chronic cases, or refusal of surgical intervention.

Complications of hydrocele include:

• Rupture of the hydrocele sac;

• Impaired blood flow in the testicle;

• Testicular atrophy;

• Inguinal hernia;

• Suppuration of the hydrocele;

• Calcification of the serous fluid.

To reduce the risk of developing hydrocele in adulthood, it is recommended to:

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle;

• Avoid harmful habits;

• Prevent injuries and hypothermia in the groin area;

• Undergo an annual preventive urological check-up;

• Timely treat all urogenital diseases.

At «Oxford Medical», hydrocele surgery is performed in a modern surgical facility equipped with the latest diagnostic and surgical equipment from leading brands. Thanks to this and the expertise of our highly qualified physicians, our patients receive accurate diagnostics and medical care that meets the highest quality standards.

To schedule a consultation, call our contact center or send a message via the chat on our website.