Hydrocele Treatment

Hydrocele treatment ranges from an injection to surgery. A hydrocele, literally a “sac of water,” occurs when fluid accumulates in the covering testicles or spermatic cord. The cause of a hydrocele is inflammation of the skin or testicles or an obstruction in the spermatic cord. Hydrocele occurs in about 1 out of 100 men.

1. No treatment may be needed if the hydrocele is small and not causing any uncomfortable symptoms. Normally, these go away on their own. A visit to your doctor may provide you with reassurance and a confirmation of the diagnosis.
2. The hydrocele can be aspirated. A needle can be inserted into the hydrocele, and the fluid can be removed. However, the fluid usually returns so this is not a long-term solution to the problem unless it is used in conjunction with sclerosing agent (thickening agent) which is injected after the needle aspiration.
3. Surgical excision can be effective. A hydrocelectomy is a surgery done on the hydrocele which removes most of the hydrocele sac while the remainder is turned inside out so that the fluids from the remaining part of the hydrocele sac are not directed at the testicle which doesn’t absorb fluid well. This fluid is not absorbed by the scrotal tissue. An injection of sclerosing agent is usually injected after the surgery.

Warnings:

Any hydrocele associated with a inguinal hernia should be treated immediately.

The risks associated with hydrocele surgery include infection, blood clotting or damage to the tissue.

Seek immediately emergency medical attention if there is acute pain along with the swelling of the hydrocele.