Procedures

Hydrocele repair (Hydrocelectomy)

A hydrocele is an accumulation of fluid surrounding the testicle. This hydrocele is responsible for a greater or lesser volume increase on one, or both sides of the scrotum. It is a benign disease that can not become infected or evolve into a more serious disease.

However, it can be responsible for discomfort, for being cumbersome during certain activities (e.g. bicycle) or for an aesthetic prejudice.

The purpose of the procedure is to restore the scrotum to a normal volume and to eliminate the symptoms for which the patient has consulted.

How is a hydrocele repair (hydrocelectomy) performed?

The procedure starts by a short incision at the brown scrotal line. The goal consists in emptying the liquid. It is sometimes necessary to remove part of the envelope and then reconfigure the envelope to reduce the risk of recurrence. Sutures are used for closing the skin.

A drain is sometimes left in place temporarily.

Are there other treatment options to treat a hydrocele?

There is no medical treatment for hydrocele.

The treatment of hydrocele by puncture can be offered; it is though, a temporary solution since it will most likely reoccur in the following months. This treatment is generally carried out for short-term comfort, before performing definitive surgery with a surgical repair.

What are the risks and complications of a hydrocelectomy?

Any surgical procedure involves a number of risks that are not always predictable. Complications directly related to the operation are rare, but possible:
  • Hematoma: a re-intervention to stop bleeding and drain the hematoma may be necessary.
  • Delayed healing that may require prolonged local care.
  • Infection: the existence of a flow through the incision, general signs of infection such as fever, or local as an inflammation of the bursa, can lead to the initiation of a suitable antibiotic treatment and the treatment of a possible absess by Dr. Marois.
  • Testicular atrophy: it is of exceptional emergence after hydrocele surgery.
  • Recurrence: the risk is extremely low.


It is possible that the scrotum is bluish or black for a few days, it is normal, everything will return to order in 2 or 3 weeks. Melting sutures are used, they will resorb themselves in 12 to 15 days.

When the sutures are resorbed, there may be a flow similar to pus. Take a bath every day. Shower is allowed after 24 hours and bath after 48 hours.

Would you like to make an appointment, or do you have any questions? Write to us and we will get back to you as soon as possible!

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